Srinagar, Mar 27 — A delegation of Kashmir-based religious leaders on Friday met Iran’s ambassador in New Delhi to convey condolences over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and express solidarity with the Iranian people amid the ongoing conflict.
The delegation, led by Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) patron Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, called on Iranian Ambassador Dr Mohammad Fathali and other officials, according to a statement issued by the Mirwaiz’s office.
“A delegation of Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) met the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran… in New Delhi today,” the statement said.
It added that the delegation conveyed “heartfelt condolences on the martyrdom of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his family members and other leadership and expressed deep solidarity with the people of Iran in their hour of invasion and hardship.”
“On behalf of the people of Kashmir, the delegation stated that the martyrdom of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei… has deeply saddened them,” it said.
The group also condemned the ongoing hostilities involving the United States and Israel, terming it an “imposed war” on Iran, and expressed hope that diplomatic efforts would lead to “an end to this aggression, restoring peace and stability.”
The conflict began after joint US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, following escalating tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Iran’s retaliation widened the conflict across the Gulf region, with disruptions reported in energy supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.
The MMU delegation also referred to historical and cultural ties between Kashmir and Iran, noting that the Valley has often been described as “Iran-e-Sagheer” due to longstanding civilisational links.
It further stressed the need for unity and collective efforts, stating that “unity, steadfastness and collective prayers for peace are the need of the hour for the ummah to face these challenges.”