India can play ‘positive role’ in easing US-Iran tensions, says Tehran envoy
New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran has expressed confidence that India can play a constructive role in reducing hostilities between Iran and the United States, given its balanced diplomatic stance and strong ties with multiple global players.
Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fattahi, said New Delhi is well-positioned to act as a credible mediator due to its long-standing relationships with both Iran and countries aligned with the US, including Israel. He emphasised that India’s neutral foreign policy and influence among Global South nations could help facilitate dialogue and de-escalation.
“India can certainly play an effective and positive role in reducing current tensions. Its balanced approach and credibility make it a suitable mediator to promote dialogue and peaceful engagement,” the envoy said while addressing media in New Delhi.
The remarks come after Donald Trump announced a temporary pause in military actions against Iran and called for renewed negotiations. Reports suggest that Washington has proposed a multi-point framework to Tehran aimed at curbing nuclear activity, missile development, and regional interventions.
Despite these overtures, Iran has remained firm in its stance. Officials in Tehran have indicated reluctance to engage in direct negotiations, even as diplomatic efforts intensify through backchannel communications involving regional intermediaries, including Pakistan.
According to reports, the US is simultaneously pursuing diplomacy while strengthening its military presence in the Gulf region. Deployment of additional forces, including marines and paratroopers, is being seen as a precautionary measure in case the situation deteriorates further.
However, Iran’s military establishment has openly criticised the US approach. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, which oversees Iran’s military operations, dismissed the idea of negotiations and questioned Washington’s intent. In a televised statement, spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Zolfaghari ridiculed US claims of diplomatic engagement.
“Our position has been clear from the beginning. We will never reach an agreement with such adversaries—neither now nor in the future,” he said, adding that the US was not in a position to dictate terms or claim strategic success.
On the ground, hostilities continue unabated, with Iran-backed groups and US allies engaged in ongoing confrontations. Reports of attacks in the Gulf region, including near strategic infrastructure, have further heightened tensions.
As the conflict approaches a prolonged phase, pressure is mounting on global powers to intervene diplomatically. In this context, India’s potential role as a neutral facilitator is being closely watched.
Observers note that while India has traditionally maintained strategic autonomy in foreign policy, stepping into a mediation role would require careful balancing of geopolitical interests. Nevertheless, Tehran’s endorsement underscores New Delhi’s growing importance on the global diplomatic stage.
