Patna, April 5: Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, the representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India, firmly rejected any claims of Pakistan mediating between Iran and the United States in the ongoing West Asia conflict. He dismissed such reports as false, asserting that they were merely attempts to manipulate global oil prices, rather than any genuine diplomatic initiative.
Ilahi expressed that Pakistan had no role in the dialogue between Iran and the U.S., stating, “They don’t have any role in this. The claim that Pakistan facilitated talks between Iran and America to stop the war is not true. It was merely an attempt to influence oil prices by making it look like a serious negotiation when it wasn’t.”
He further criticized the efforts, saying, “They were not serious about the conversation, the dialogue, or the negotiation. It was just a strategy to manipulate certain countries into believing they were engaged in peace talks when, in reality, they weren’t.”
In response to a question about India’s potential role in mediating peace, Ilahi remained hopeful, stating, "Of course, all countries, including India, can play a crucial role in resolving this crisis and ending the conflict."
Ilahi elaborated on the conflict’s origin, attributing its escalation to the United States and Israel’s military actions against Iran, which began on February 28. He accused both nations of launching attacks that targeted civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and residential areas, resulting in significant loss of life.
“The war began with attacks from the U.S. and Israel,” Ilahi explained. “They targeted Iran’s civilians, hitting schools, hospitals, and homes. Many lives were lost. The end of this war lies with those who initiated these hostilities. They have the power to stop it, and when they do, the war will end.”
Currently in Patna to attend a condolence event for Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Ilahi emphasized that Iran did not seek conflict. He stated, “Iran has never wanted this war. It was imposed on us. We want peace, and we want this war to end immediately. Unfortunately, the world is suffering because of this unjust war.”
Ilahi also called for international intervention, urging global leaders to unite and demand an end to the conflict. "People from different countries are suffering because of this war. World leaders must come together and press those who initiated this war to stop it," he said.
While he did not specify a timeline, Ilahi expressed hope that the conflict would eventually be resolved. The conflict, which erupted after joint U.S.-Israel military strikes on Iran in late February, has had far-reaching consequences, including disruption to global energy markets and economic stability. In retaliation, Iran targeted U.S. and Israeli assets across several Gulf nations, exacerbating tensions in the region. (With Agency Input)