Iran’s Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, emphasized India’s potential to bolster peace and stability in West Asia during a recent event titled ‘Voices of Conscience: A solidarity gathering for Palestine.’ Speaking to ANI, Elahi highlighted India’s influential position, urging it to counter what he described as a ‘grand strategy’ by the US and Israel to alter regional maps through various actions. He warned that such changes would not benefit the region and stressed the importance of collective efforts to maintain peace.

Elahi also spotlighted the Chabahar Port project, a key collaboration between India and Iran, noting its operational success during conflicts and its growing transit rates. He revealed plans to integrate Chabahar into Iran’s national railway network soon, touting it as the most efficient route to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and Eurasia. India has committed to developing the Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar under a 10-year contract starting May 2024.

Addressing Iran’s tensions with Israel, Elahi asserted that Iran had not sought a ceasefire but acted in self-defense. He accused Israel of repeatedly violating ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, leaving Iran prepared for any scenario. The envoy criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s US visit and his nomination of Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, labeling it a misuse of the concept of peace.

Elahi also touched on Iran’s suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), citing public dissatisfaction and a parliamentary decision. Reiterating Iran’s support for Palestine, he condemned the ongoing situation in Gaza as a ‘shameful genocide,’ calling on influential nations to persuade Israel to halt its actions.