New Delhi:
Iran has taken a swipe at Donald Trump after he shared a controversial social media post that described India and China as “hellholes” while advocating changes to the United States’ birthright citizenship laws.
Joining the backlash, the Consulate General of Iran in Mumbai mocked Trump on social media platform X by sharing a video showcasing Maharashtra’s cultural and geographical diversity.
Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr. #Trump, it might just reduce the random bakwaas 😏
— Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) April 23, 2026
Kabhi #India aa ke dekho, phir bolna. pic.twitter.com/kkocLZ31XX
The post suggested that a visit to the Indian state could serve as a “cultural detox” for the former US President.
“Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr Trump, it might just reduce the random bakwaas,” the consulate wrote.
It added another Hindi phrase, “Kabhi India aa ke dekho, phir bolna” (Come visit India first, then speak).
Controversy Began With Podcast Post Reposted By Trump
The diplomatic jibe follows controversy triggered after Trump reposted a transcript and video from a podcast hosted by American political commentator Michael Savage.
In the podcast, Savage used derogatory language to describe immigrants from India and China while discussing reforms to America’s birthright citizenship laws.
He claimed that immigrants from these countries travel to the United States during late stages of pregnancy and give birth to children who automatically receive US citizenship — a claim widely disputed by immigration experts.
Savage also referred to India, China and other countries as “hellholes,” sparking outrage and criticism across social media and diplomatic circles.
India Condemns Remarks As ‘Uninformed And In Poor Taste’
India officially responded to the remarks, strongly condemning the language used in the controversial post.
Without directly naming Trump, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the comments as inappropriate and misinformed.
“We have seen the comments, as also the subsequent statement issued by the US embassy in response. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
He added that the remarks did not reflect the reality of the relationship between India and the United States, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests.
US Embassy Issues Clarification After Backlash
Following widespread criticism, the US Embassy in India released a clarification aimed at easing tensions.
According to the statement, Trump considers India a “great country” and described its leadership as a “very good friend,” signalling an attempt to reduce diplomatic friction after the controversy.
The clarification came as global reactions continued to pour in, with political commentators and diplomats weighing in on the impact of such remarks on international relations.
Diplomatic Exchanges Highlight Growing Social Media Role
The incident underscores the growing role of social media in diplomatic communication, where official missions increasingly respond publicly to political controversies.
Iran’s satirical response — highlighting India’s cultural richness — reflected how diplomatic messaging is now blending humour with geopolitical signalling, particularly amid heightened global tensions.
The episode also illustrates how comments made in domestic political debates, especially on immigration and citizenship laws, can trigger international reactions and affect diplomatic relations.