Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized the United States and Israel during his visit to India, accusing them of bullying and terrorism. Speaking at an event in New Delhi on Friday, Pezeshkian stated that Iran has successfully resisted both nations' pressures and will not submit to their demands. He accused the US and Israel of targeting civilian infrastructure and committing acts of terrorism, including the killing of 168 schoolchildren in an attack attributed to their modern weaponry.

Pezeshkian's remarks were made during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which took place on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. The two leaders met for the second time in under two weeks, following a previous discussion at the SCO Summit in Bishkek. During their talks, Modi expressed appreciation for Iran's participation in BRICS-related meetings and emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional conflicts. The PM also highlighted the need for cooperation to ensure peace and stability in West Asia, safeguarding freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers.

Pezeshkian's visit to India marks his first official trip to the country. He addressed Indian religious leaders, intellectuals, and business figures, expressing hope for enhanced cooperation in areas such as culture, technology, trade, science, and economy. The Iranian leader reiterated Iran's commitment to human values and equal rights for all humanity, countering accusations of terrorism by questioning the moral standing of the US and Israel.

The Iranian president's comments reflect a broader geopolitical stance, as Iran continues to navigate complex relationships with major global powers. The BRICS and SCO summits provide platforms for dialogue among nations seeking to assert their influence in global affairs.

The exact nature of the conflict Pezeshkian refers to remains unclear, as the supplied evidence does not specify the events of February that he mentions. Additionally, the attribution of the attack that killed 168 schoolchildren to US or Israeli actions is not confirmed in the sources. The lack of detailed context or verification of these claims means that the allegations remain unproven and subject to further scrutiny.

The visit underscores the growing strategic importance of India-Iran relations, particularly in the context of multilateral forums like BRICS. While the two leaders expressed optimism about cooperation, the geopolitical tensions highlighted by Pezeshkian suggest that the relationship remains complex and influenced by broader international dynamics.