Kashmiri Shia Muslims Rally for Iran Amidst Tensions with US and Israel

In Srinagar and Budgam, Kashmiri Shia Muslims staged demonstrations condemning the US and Israel while supporting Iran amidst its internal unrest. As protests in Iran escalate, accusations of US and Israeli interference rise. India seeks to navigate these tensions while maintaining its projects in the region.

Kashmiri Shia Muslims have taken to the streets in Srinagar and Budgam, voicing their support for Iran and denouncing the United States and Israel in response to the ongoing turmoil in the Islamic Republic. This comes as Iran faces mounting anti-government protests, with US President Donald Trump expressing encouragement for the demonstrators, emphasizing Washington DC's readiness to provide aid.

Aga Syed Hasan Al-Moosavi Al-Safavi, who heads the Anjuman Sharie Shian in Jammu and Kashmir, accused the US and Israel of deliberately inciting unrest in Iran. He stated, "They aim to sow terror across the nation. Consequently, we are voicing our opposition to both the US and Israeli actions. Our demonstrations are a stand against oppression and injustice."

Meanwhile, an anonymous protester told ANI, "Israel and the US disrupt peace globally. Our protest highlights resistance against such adversaries. Sovereignty for all nations is essential. We're united with Khamenei and his followers, pledging to oppose tyranny. Our commitment to safeguarding Islam is unwavering, even at great personal cost."

Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently consulted External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who promised measures to ensure the safety of students and residents from the region currently in Iran. In parallel developments, Awami Itihaad Party MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, known as Engineer Rashid, appealed to Jaishankar for prompt action to ensure the safe return of Kashmiri students from Iran.

Amid these developments, India is engaging with the US to secure a time-bound sanctions waiver, crucial for its projects at Iran's Chabahar Port. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed ongoing discussions with the US, informing the media of efforts to maintain continuity of work at this strategic site, vital for trade routes bypassing Pakistan. The waiver remains in effect until April 26, 2026, following US Treasury's conditional guidelines issued on October 28, 2025.

India initially proposed the Chabahar Port project back in 2003, envisioning an alternative route for its goods to landlocked regions such as Afghanistan and Central Asia. The initiative aims to fortify trade networks bypassing Pakistan, an endeavor previously impeded by US sanctions placed on Iran due to its contentious nuclear agenda. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)