India formally expressed its condolences following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, who was killed last week in a joint military operation reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel.
On Thursday, Vikram Misri, India’s Foreign Secretary, signed the official condolence book on behalf of the Government of India. The move marks New Delhi’s first formal response since Khamenei’s death was announced.
First Official Reaction From New Delhi
Khamenei, 86, had led Iran since 1989 and was one of the most influential figures in West Asian politics. His killing has significantly escalated tensions in the region and drawn global attention.
Misri’s visit came five days after the incident. During this period, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of phone conversations with leaders from West Asia, focusing on regional stability. However, he has not issued a direct public statement regarding Khamenei’s death.
Diplomatic observers view the signing of the condolence book as a calibrated step by India, balancing its strategic relationships in a highly sensitive geopolitical situation.
Opposition Questions Government’s Silence
The government’s measured response has sparked criticism from opposition parties. Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi publicly questioned the Centre’s stance, arguing that silence on such a major international development could affect India’s global standing.
She described the government’s approach as an attempt to avoid taking responsibility, raising concerns about the clarity and direction of India’s foreign policy.
Diplomatic Balancing Act
India maintains strategic ties with both Iran and the United States, making the situation diplomatically complex. Iran has historically been an important partner for India in energy security and regional connectivity projects, while relations with the US and Israel have deepened in recent years.
By offering condolences without issuing a broader political statement, New Delhi appears to be walking a careful diplomatic line amid rising tensions in West Asia.
