Srinagar, January 16, 2026 : People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Friday called upon the people of Iran to remain united to counter what she described as the “ploys” of the United States and Israel, while also urging the Iranian leadership to address the genuine grievances of protesters.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Mufti alleged that the United States has a history of intervening in other countries under the pretext of promoting democracy, primarily driven by its interest in natural resources.
“The US claims it wants to establish democracy by removing leaderships, which is totally wrong. Its interventions are largely motivated by access to resources like fuel,” she said.
Mufti alleged that several Muslim countries have been “destroyed” through similar narratives of human rights violations. Drawing a contrast, she said, “The biggest atrocities are being committed in Gaza, yet the US does not intervene there.”
She welcomed demonstrations held across Kashmir after Friday prayers in support of Iran, saying it reflected public sentiment. Calling on Iranians to remain vigilant, Mufti said, “The people of Iran must understand the designs of the US and Israel. They are friends of no one and only pursue their own interests.”
Warning against foreign interference, she said that if Iran were to fall into such “traps,” its situation could deteriorate further, similar to Syria. At the same time, she acknowledged that public grievances exist in every country and said governments must address them.
“Grievances should be addressed by the government, but people must stay united to defeat external ploys,” she added.
Referring to historical ties between India, Kashmir and Iran, Mufti said expressions of solidarity should have been seen across the country as in earlier times. She alleged that since the BJP came to power, people have become hesitant to protest.
On the issue of students from Jammu and Kashmir studying in Iran amid the prevailing situation, Mufti said she has requested External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to arrange special flights to ensure their safe return.
