Iranian ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, stated on Saturday (October 5, 2024) that India has the potential to play a crucial role in the peace process and could persuade Israel to halt the genocide in Gaza.
“We believe that India can play a constructive role despite its good relations with Israel, and can convince Israel to cease the genocide in Gaza and prevent further escalation in the region,” Mr. Ilahi told ANI.
The Iranian envoy also highlighted that India, as an emerging major power, carries significant responsibilities.
“India is a founder of NAM. India asserts an autonomous strategy and has recently championed the voice of the south. Therefore, India shoulders a certain level of responsibility,” he added.
When questioned about the roadmap for the peace process, Ilahi emphasized, “The only solution is to grant the rights of Palestinians as a deprived and oppressed nation. The entire world, including the United States, Arab states, and various countries, must acknowledge and respect their rights to have a state, a homeland, prosperity, and sovereignty. This is the fundamental solution. It’s crystal clear.”
According to Mr. Ilahi, Iran’s perspective on the events of October 7 significantly differs from that of many other countries.
“We believe that the events of Oct 7 did not occur suddenly; they have deep-rooted causes and backgrounds. It is essential to examine the history of the region and how Israel was established. It was formed on Palestinian lands, gradually displacing Palestinians from their homes, destroying their farms, and forcing them to leave their homeland. In our view, Palestinians are defending and reclaiming their homeland despite all propaganda,” stated the Iranian envoy.
On October 7, hundreds of Hamas militants breached Israeli borders, resulting in over 1200 casualties and the capture of 250 hostages, with 100 individuals still held captive.
Israel responded with a large-scale military operation in Gaza targeting Hamas forces. However, the rising civilian death toll, especially among women and children, has sparked humanitarian concerns regarding the escalating conflict.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 35,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in this conflict. The violence has spread to the region, with Houthi rebels in Yemen also targeting Israel and neighboring countries in the Red Sea.
Israel has continued to strike Hezbollah in Lebanon in response to perceived threats. With the conflict intensifying, major nations have called for a ceasefire and hostage resolution while advocating for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace in the region.
Published – October 06, 2024 04:44 am IST
