New Delhi

Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Monday welcomed India’s position on the ongoing West Asia conflict, describing its call for dialogue and restraint as responsible and constructive.

In an interview, the envoy said countries like India could play a meaningful role in easing tensions during the crisis. However, he added that Iran expects independent nations to take a firmer stand by condemning what he termed as military actions by the United States and Israel, alleging violations of Iran’s sovereignty and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Fathali maintained that Iran has consistently avoided initiating conflict but asserted that it would defend itself if attacked. He described Tehran’s actions as “legitimate self-defence” in response to external aggression, adding that Iran would determine the course and scale of any such confrontation.

Addressing economic cooperation, the ambassador stressed that projects like the Chabahar Port should remain insulated from sanctions and geopolitical pressures. He highlighted the port’s importance in boosting regional connectivity, particularly for India’s access to Central Asia, and said bilateral coordination on the project remains ongoing.

On the broader strategic front, Fathali claimed that the objectives of Iran’s adversaries had not been achieved. He argued that instead of weakening the country, the conflict has strengthened internal unity and public support within Iran.

He also pointed to what he described as shifting priorities in Washington, suggesting that earlier rhetoric around regime change had given way to concerns about maintaining access to the Strait of Hormuz—an indication, he said, of flawed policy assessments.

The envoy further emphasised Iran’s resilience, asserting that the country has demonstrated its ability to withstand external pressure across political, military and social dimensions.

Highlighting multilateral engagement, he described BRICS as a key platform for cooperation among emerging economies. He urged member nations to take a principled stand on the current crisis, support international law, and work towards reducing tensions.

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The remarks come as the conflict in West Asia enters its second month, with continued hostilities affecting civilian areas, energy infrastructure and strategic routes across the region.