Iran says ties with India vital, backs coordination on Strait of Hormuz concerns

New Delhi, May 2026 : Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday underlined the importance Tehran places on its relationship with India, saying the two countries share similar concerns and strategic interests regarding developments in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking to reporters after the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, Araghchi said he held detailed discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his visit, with talks focusing on regional security, maritime stability, and the evolving situation in West Asia.

The Iranian Foreign Minister said both India and Iran were closely aligned in their assessment of the challenges facing the region, particularly the growing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most crucial energy transit routes.

Araghchi stated that he had a “very good brief discussion” with Prime Minister Modi and later a “lengthy meeting” with Jaishankar, during which the leaders exchanged views on almost every major regional issue.

He noted that Tehran and New Delhi shared common concerns over the security situation in the Persian Gulf and would continue consultations to ensure stability in the region.

Referring to the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi described conditions there as “very complicated” but said Iran was making efforts to ensure the safe passage of ships through the strategic waterway.

He expressed confidence that the situation would gradually return to normal once what he termed “acts of aggression” against Iran came to an end.

The Iranian Minister also highlighted the strong diplomatic engagement between Tehran and New Delhi over the past few months, especially during the recent conflict in West Asia.

He praised India for successfully hosting the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and thanked the Indian government for extending warm hospitality to the Iranian delegation.

Araghchi said he shares both a good personal rapport and productive working relationship with Jaishankar, adding that the two sides had remained in regular contact throughout the regional crisis.

Emphasising the historical depth of India-Iran ties, Araghchi described the two nations as “ancient civilizations” with longstanding cultural, economic and political connections.

He said the two countries have consistently maintained strong trade relations and political consultations over the years and reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests.

According to Araghchi, Iran is determined to continue friendly and constructive relations with India in a manner beneficial to both countries.

The Iranian Foreign Minister also spoke strongly about the recent attacks on Iran, claiming that his country had become the victim of “unprovoked aggression” by the United States and Israel during a sensitive phase of diplomatic negotiations.

He said the attacks took place while Iran was engaged in discussions with the United States, calling the developments “very unfortunate.”

Araghchi expressed appreciation to countries that condemned the attacks and specifically thanked India for showing solidarity with the Iranian people during the difficult period.

He acknowledged the humanitarian assistance extended by the Indian government, describing it as a meaningful gesture of friendship and support.

The Iranian Minister said Tehran deeply valued India’s sympathy and assistance, which further reflected the strength of ties between the two countries amid challenging geopolitical circumstances.

Team Maverick.