Clerics express concern over US-Iran rift, fear wider conflict

Lucknow: Prominent Muslim clerics, Maulana Yasoob Abbas and Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali, have voiced serious concern over the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, warning that the evolving situation could have far-reaching global consequences.

Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali, President of the Islamic Centre of India, expressed disappointment over the reported failure of talks between the United States and Iran held in Islamabad. He said that the breakdown of dialogue has triggered a sense of unease and disappointment across the international community.

Commenting on recent statements by the US President, Firangi Mahali termed America’s claim of having “won the war” as baseless. He asserted that several NATO countries chose not to support the United States, as the conflict was seen as being against international law and unjustly imposed on Iran. He cautioned that such actions undermine global norms and stability.

He further warned against the United States issuing threats to other global powers, including China. “Such unilateral and unlawful actions pose a serious threat to the global order. The US must exercise restraint and avoid escalating tensions further,” he told IANS.

Meanwhile, All India Shia Personal Law Board General Secretary, Maulana Yasoob Abbas described the current geopolitical climate as “extremely serious,” suggesting that conditions resembling a potential third world war are beginning to emerge. He alleged that the United States is attempting to destabilise the global balance and is now openly threatening China as well.

“If such actions continue, there is a strong possibility of retaliation from China, which could further escalate tensions,” Abbas said.

He also questioned the intent and outcome of the US-Iran negotiations, stating that the talks failed due to rigid positions on both sides.

According to him, the United States insisted on terms favourable to itself, while Iran remained firm on its own conditions, leaving little room for arriving at a consensus.

“In such a scenario, it was inevitable that no consensus could be reached,” he added.

Both clerics emphasised the urgent need for dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.

IANS