India to Iran: 'Look at Your Own Record' on Supreme Leader's 'Minorities' Comment

India has condemned comments made by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei about Indian Muslims, calling them "unacceptable."

India Deplores Iran Supreme Leader’s Comments on Indian Muslims

India has condemned comments made by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei about Indian Muslims, calling them "unacceptable." The remarks were posted on X (formerly Twitter) on the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammed, where Khamenei included Indian Muslims in a broader discussion about suffering Muslims worldwide.

Foreign Ministry's Statement on the Comments

The Indian foreign ministry issued a statement saying, "We strongly deplore the comments made regarding minorities in India by the Supreme Leader of Iran." The ministry added that such comments are "misinformed and unacceptable," advising countries to review their own records before commenting on others.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s Post on Social Media

In his post, Khamenei stated, "We cannot consider ourselves to be Muslims if we are oblivious to the suffering that a Muslim is enduring in #Myanmar, #Gaza, #India, or any other place." He emphasized that enemies of Islam have tried to make Muslims indifferent to their shared Islamic identity.

Context and Diplomatic Implications

The comments come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, a situation that has caused concern in New Delhi. India maintains strong relations with both nations, with significant strategic and economic interests, including oil imports from West Asia and defense cooperation with Israel.

India’s Strategic Relationships

India's strategic ties with both Israel and Iran involve concerns over terrorism and regional stability. The Chabahar port and oil supplies from Tehran are crucial, while India’s support for Israel during the October 7 Hamas attacks reflects their shared security interests.