Congress criticised Donald Trump’s remarks on Iran and questioned the Centre’s silence
July 5, 2026: US President Donald Trump’s remarks on Iran have triggered a political debate in India as the country observed a period of mourning following the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump claimed the United States had “given Iran a holiday” for Khamenei’s funeral, asserted that Washington had inflicted heavy damage on Iran during the conflict, and said Iranian leaders could be eliminated “in one shot” but were spared to keep negotiations possible. He also claimed that Iran was “begging” for a deal.
The comments drew a sharp response from the Congress party. Rajya Sabha MP Pawan Khera shared reports on social media and criticised Trump’s statements as provocative and irresponsible, arguing that such remarks undermine peace efforts in West Asia. Referring to reports claiming that nearly 10 million people attended Khamenei’s funeral, Khera noted that Indian representatives had also travelled to Iran to pay their respects.
Khera also questioned the Narendra Modi-led government for not publicly responding to Trump’s remarks. He alleged that the Centre lacked the moral courage to condemn what he described as inflammatory statements made by the US President, accusing the government of remaining silent on an issue with significant diplomatic implications.