Iran will welcome any peace initiative by India to normalize tensions with US

Iran will welcome any peace initiative by India aimed at de-escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington after retaliatory attacks from both sides, said Iranian envoy to New Delhi. Ali Chegeni, Iranian Ambassador to India, said that India plays “very good role” in maintaining peace in world, adding India belongs to region.

“We welcome all initiatives from all countries, especially India as a good friend for us, to t allow escalation (of tensions)," said Chegeni after condolence meeting at Iran’s Embassy in New Delhi.

India calls for calm and restraint

After Iran’s top military leader Gen Qassem Soleimani was killed by US forces, India called for calm and restraint over prevailing situation. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a statement, said that latest escalation in US-Iran relations has alarmed world and it is vital that situation does t escalate furr.

“Peace, stability, and security in this region is of utmost importance to India... India has consistently advocated restraint and continues to do so,” said ministry.

Meanwhile, latest attack on US bases by Iran has furr escalated tension in region. Just before Soleimani was buried in Kerman, Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq. US has t revealed number of casualties yet but Iran’s local media reports claim that around 80 people have been killed in attacks.

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Read: India Issues Advisory To Avoid Travel To Iraq Amid US-Iran Tensions

'Bases already on high alert'

However, Pentagon said that bases were already on high alert due to Iran’s indication to attack US forces in region. “As we evaluate situation and our response, we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend US personnel, partners, and allies in region,” said Pentagon in a statement.

Hours after attack, Chief of Staff of Iranian Armed Forces Mohammad Bagheri warned US that Tehran will react with “stronger, more crushing, and broader” response if it tries any new “evil act”. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said that Tehran took “proportionate measures” in self-defence under Article 51 of United Nations Charter.

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Read: Warren: Americans Don't Want War With Iran

(With inputs from ncies)