WANA (Apr 25) – As tensions escalate between Pakistan and India, Iran’s Foreign Minister announced on X that Tehran is prepared to help mediate between the two neighbors. “India and Pakistan are Iran’s brothers and neighbors,” he wrote, “with deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties spanning centuries. Like all our neighbors, they are our top priority.”

 

He added, “Tehran is ready to use its good offices in Islamabad and New Delhi to foster greater understanding during this difficult time.”

 

He concluded with a verse by the Persian poet Saadi: “Human beings are members of a whole, in creation of one essence and soul. If one member is afflicted with pain, other members uneasy will remain.”

 

Tensions flared after a group of armed men opened fire on tourists Tuesday night in the scenic Pahalgam area, about 90 kilometers from Srinagar, the summer capital of Indian-administered Kashmir. At least 27 people were killed.

 

Indian officials labeled the incident a terrorist attack and accused neighboring Pakistan of being involved. New Delhi has long blamed Pakistan-based militant groups for orchestrating attacks in Kashmir and other parts of India.

 

In response, Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, condemned the attack but warned India against any provocative action. “As a nuclear power, Islamabad will retaliate against any Indian aggression in defense of its national interests,” he said.