Tensions between Iran and the United States remain high amid an ongoing conflict and a temporary ceasefire. Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, representing Ali Khamenei in India, said the war was “imposed” on Iran. Speaking to Asian News International, he highlighted key concerns including the conflict’s civilian impact, rising regional tensions, and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Iran Says Conflict Was Forced, Not Chosen
Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, the representative of Ali Khamenei in India, said that Iran never wanted war with the United States and that the conflict was “imposed” on the country. Speaking to Asian News International, he stated that Iran had no intention of fighting any nation, especially its neighboring Arab countries.
According to Ilahi, tensions rose because the United States used military bases in Arab countries to launch attacks on Iran. He said both countries have now agreed to a temporary two-week ceasefire after intense fighting.
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Ilahi claimed that those who initiated the conflict believed it would end within three days but later realized the situation had escalated, particularly after civilian areas were affected. He also stated that, based on American accounts, the US carried out over 10,000 attacks targeting Iran’s air force and missile systems.
Claims of Civilian Impact and Regional Tensions
Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi made strong claims about the impact of the conflict on civilians. He said Iranian homes, schools, and public places were affected during the attacks. Ilahi highlighted an incident in Minab. He claimed missiles struck a school there. He said 170 young girls were killed. Ilahi called it a tragic example of the damage caused.
According to Ilahi, the missiles were launched from military bases in Arab countries. He said there is evidence to support this claim. Ilahi also added that some European nations have acknowledged these findings. He said this supports Iran’s position.
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Ilahi maintained that Iran did not target civilians in response. He said Iran focused only on American military bases in those regions. He added that efforts were made to avoid harming ordinary people. Ilahi also expressed hope for peaceful relations with neighboring Arab countries despite tensions.
He warned that the United States cannot bring lasting peace to the region. He said Iran has emerged stronger from the conflict. Ilahi added that Iranian citizens showed unity during the crisis. He said people gathered to protect key infrastructure like bridges, hospitals, and mosques.
Strait of Hormuz, Ceasefire Talks, and Trump’s Statement
Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as one of the most critical routes for global oil transportation. He explained that a large portion of the world’s oil supply passes through this narrow waterway, making it highly significant for international trade and energy security. Ilahi stated that Iran maintains control over the Strait and plays a central role in ensuring its operations and stability.
Responding to remarks by Donald Trump, Ilahi rejected claims that the United States helped reopen the Strait. He clarified that the route had already been functioning normally before the conflict began. According to him, it was the war itself that caused disruptions in shipping movement and affected global oil supply chains, creating uncertainty in international markets.
Ilahi warned that the situation could have become far more serious if Iran’s oil refineries had been directly targeted. He suggested that such an escalation might have completely halted oil movement through the region, making the Strait of Hormuz effectively irrelevant. Ilahi added that Iran’s firm and clear stance during the conflict played a key role in preventing further escalation.
He also said that diplomatic talks between Iran and the United States are ongoing, focusing on a ten-point proposal presented by Iran. Ilahi noted that several countries helped bring about the ceasefire and stressed that protecting civilians remains the top priority.