The remarks were made in India, but the statement concerns the ongoing West Asia conflict involving Iran and other regional actors, rather than a specific incident location within India. Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, Representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, has called for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, saying continued hostilities are deepening humanitarian and economic suffering across the region. Speaking at a press conference, he urged global powers to exert pressure on the United States and Israel to halt military operations, arguing that peace could be restored if fighting stops. He emphasised that Iran seeks stability and believes dialogue remains the only viable path forward.

Ilahi questioned international restrictions imposed on Iran, particularly those affecting trade, banking, and diplomatic engagement. He described these measures as “collective punishment” that unfairly impact ordinary civilians rather than political decision-makers. According to him, such restrictions worsen living conditions and obstruct humanitarian access, while also increasing regional instability instead of resolving underlying tensions.

He also reiterated Iran’s position that it has not sought escalation and has attempted to pursue diplomatic engagement through multiple rounds of talks. Ilahi referred to negotiations held in Oman and later in Geneva, claiming that early progress was made before being disrupted by sudden military actions, which he attributed to opposing sides. He said Iran remains open to dialogue but insists that negotiations must be based on fairness and mutual respect.

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The Iranian representative further alleged that the conflict had been planned over several years with the aim of forcing rapid political change in Iran, a goal he said had failed. He claimed that Iran faced extensive strikes during the initial phase of the conflict, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, including residential areas, hospitals, and educational institutions. Despite this, he said Iran has continued to resist pressure while avoiding unconditional surrender.

Describing the current situation as a fragile “no war, no peace” environment, Ilahi said tensions continue through military presence and restrictions affecting maritime activity near strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed that the route has historically remained open for global shipping and warned that continued conflict risks disrupting international trade. He concluded by saying lasting peace can only be achieved if all parties abandon military escalation and return to meaningful negotiations.

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