Tue Sep 17 04:53:03 UTC 2024: ## India Rebukes Iran’s Supreme Leader for Comments on Minorities
**New Delhi, September 17, 2024:** India has sharply criticized remarks by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calling them “misinformed and unacceptable,” after he expressed concern for Muslims facing difficulties in India.
On the occasion of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, Khamenei had stated on X (formerly Twitter) that Muslims should not be indifferent to the suffering of their brethren in Myanmar, Gaza, India, and other parts of the world. He also urged Muslims to be aware of “ill-wishers” fueling religious differences, specifically mentioning Iran.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded swiftly, stating that the comments about minorities in India were “misinformed” and advised countries to “look at their own record” before commenting on others.
This rebuke comes as the two countries share longstanding ties and remain partners, despite challenges like Western sanctions affecting Iran’s oil exports.
This isn’t the first time Khamenei has commented on the plight of Muslims in India. In 2019, he expressed concern over India’s decision to revoke Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. He also condemned the 2020 New Delhi riots, urging Indian authorities to stop the “massacre of Muslims.”
While India has historically maintained strong relations with Iran, the recent comments may strain ties. However, both countries recently signed a long-term contract for the operation of the Shahid Beheshti Port terminal at Chabahar in Iran, highlighting the continued significance of their economic partnership.
Despite the current friction, India and Iran share a history of close relations, with trade and connectivity being key components of their engagement. In 2022-23, bilateral trade reached $2.33 billion, representing a significant increase from previous years.
It remains to be seen how this latest exchange will impact the future of India-Iran relations.
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