In the wake of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s assassination by US and Israeli forces, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has raised alarms over Middle East volatility and India’s muted response, urging a recommitment to historic alliances. Khamenei, he noted, was a figure of immense stature, recognized everywhere save Israel.
Raut vividly recalled Iran’s role as India’s reliable partner during pivotal moments—Pakistan wars and Kashmir tensions—always backed by Khamenei’s leadership. A personal angle emerged: Khamenei’s deep reverence for Nehru, underscoring the emotional depth of Indo-Iran relations.
Targeting the Centre, Raut demanded: ‘Why shy away from condolences? Fearing Israel or Trump?’ He framed mourning as India’s duty to honor a significant global personality.
Mandela’s embrace of Khamenei served as Raut’s powerful analogy. The anti-apartheid icon’s respect didn’t tarnish his legacy. ‘Modi and BJP should see that condolences signal strength, not surrender,’ he advised.
Dismissing political games, Raut argued that neglecting such gestures erodes India’s diplomatic credibility. Khamenei’s legacy profoundly shaped India-world dynamics; expressing sorrow honors that bond and reaffirms India’s values of friendship and decorum amid regional unrest.