"Historic friendship": Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba thanks PM Modi for Eid greetings
Tehran, June 29
Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has expressed his profound appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his warm greetings on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.
According to Iranian sources, the Supreme Leader emphasised the immense value of further strengthening the longstanding friendly relations between the two countries, underscoring New Delhi's pivotal role in regional cooperation.
The official communication from Tehran warmly reciprocated the goodwill extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural and strategic ties shared between India and Iran.
In his official message addressed to PM Modi, the Iranian Supreme Leader said, "His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Honourable Prime Minister of the Republic of India, I have received Your Excellency's message of congratulations on the occasion of the blessed Eid al-Adha."
The message continued, "While expressing my sincere appreciation and extending my reciprocal congratulations, I am confident that the historic friendship between our two countries, founded on mutual respect and shared interests, will continue to be further strengthened and expanded through the efforts of our two governments. I pray to Almighty God for the prosperity and continued success of the Government and the great people of India."
This exchange marks what is believed to be the first direct communication from Mojtaba Khamenei to Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his ascension as Iran's Supreme Leader.
Significantly, the newly appointed leader has still not been seen in public since taking office, following widespread reports indicating he suffered severe injuries during the US military strikes.
This high-level outreach comes against the backdrop of critical leadership changes in Tehran. Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to the state funeral and burial ceremonies for Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran.
The official invitation marks a significant diplomatic engagement following the death of the 86-year-old leader, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli airstrike on February 28. Having headed the Islamic Republic for 36 years, the senior Khamenei was killed on the first day of the military strikes directed against Tehran.
— ANI
Reader Comments
India has always valued its historic friendship with Iran—from cultural exchanges to energy cooperation. This exchange of pleasantries is a step in the right direction. But the report about Mojtaba Khamenei being injured and not seen in public is concerning. We need more transparency from Tehran. Nonetheless, Bharat's soft power diplomacy is impressive! 🙏🇮🇳
Interesting diplomatic development. Iran's new leadership reaching out to India shows the importance of New Delhi on the global stage. But the circumstances around the previous Supreme Leader's death and the current leader's injuries raise questions about Iran's stability. India should proceed with caution while maintaining open channels.
Chalo, this is good diplomacy. India has always believed in dialogue and friendship. But let's be honest—the situation in Iran is very fragile right now. A Supreme Leader who hasn't appeared in public since taking office? That's worrying. PM Modi is right to engage, but we must not ignore the security implications for the region. Waise bhi, Iran is important for Chabahar port and connectivity to Afghanistan. Smart move by India! 😎
It's heartening to see cultural and religious ties being respected across borders. Eid greetings are a wonderful gesture of goodwill. However, I'm concerned about the lack of clarity on Mojtaba Khamenei's health and public appearance. India should ensure that any deeper engagement doesn't get entangled in regional conflicts. Diplomacy with transparency is key.
As an Indian, I'm proud that our PM reaches out to all nations with respect. But I
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.