Iran Israel war: Indian Muslims in multiple cities staged demonstrations against the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in Israeli–US strikes. Hundreds of Shia Muslims gathered in Srinagar, Pattan, Ramban, and Lucknow, raising slogans against the United States and Israel and expressing solidarity with Iran.
In Pattan, protesters carried posters of Khamenei and chanted slogans condemning the attacks. A demonstrator told ANI, “Today, our beloved leader, Ali Khamenei, was brutally martyred. This mourning procession is going on peacefully in the city center.” Black flags, banners supporting Iran, and traditional mourning chants (Nauha) were seen on the streets, reflecting deep grief.
Clerics call for candlelight march to honour Khamenei
Shia cleric Maulana Syed Kalbe Jawad condemned the US–Israel strikes, calling the actions of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “cowardly.” He praised Khamenei as a leader who consistently supported the oppressed and called his death a “great loss to humanity.”
Jawad announced three days of mourning, urging people to close shops and businesses voluntarily. He also called for a candlelight march at 8 pm to honour Khamenei. Similarly, Maulana Yasub Abbas stated, “We are not afraid of martyrdom. Iran has warned the US and Israel that a befitting reply will be given.”
Calls for dialogue over war
All India Muslim Jamaat National President Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use India’s good relations with the US, Israel, and Iran to prevent further escalation. Speaking in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, he said, “War is not the solution. Dialogue is the only way to resolve conflicts.” He praised Iran for standing strong against powerful nations.
Mixed reactions in Iran
While protests in India reflected mourning and solidarity, reports from Iran showed a different reaction. CNN and Fox News reported celebrations in some Iranian cities, with people cheering and raising slogans like “Death to the Islamic Republic” and “Long Live the Shah.” Videos circulated on social media showed Iranians dancing in the streets, including women without hair coverings, celebrating Khamenei’s death.
Calls for unity and democratic transition
Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi also urged Iranians to unite and support a peaceful transition to democracy, warning that any attempt by the current regime to appoint a successor would fail. His message emphasized hope for a free and prosperous future for Iran.
Indian Muslims across the country continue to mourn Khamenei’s death and condemn the US-Israel strikes, calling for peace, dialogue, and solidarity with Iran.
(with ANI inputs).
