Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi on Sunday assured that Tehran would facilitate the swift passage of Bangladeshi vessels currently stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to the prevailing conflict.
Speaking as the chief guest at a protest rally and exhibition held at Dhaka University’s Bottala, the envoy stated that numerous ships are currently waiting in the Strait of Hormuz due to the war situation.
The event, titled “Commemoration of Martyred Students of the Islamic Republic of Iran: Demand for Justice and Accountability for US-Israeli War Crimes,” was organised by the Biplobi Chhatra Parishad.
The protest featured a symbolic exhibition of coffins representing deceased Iranian children, blood-stained school bags, and photographs depicting the impact of US-Israeli strikes. Students from various schools, colleges, and universities participated in the programme, leaving blood-stained handprints as a sign of solidarity against the aggression.
Addressing the event, Jahanabadi said, “Some Bangladeshi ships are also among those stuck. We will cooperate with Bangladesh and make arrangements for these ships to leave. Insha’Allah, the stranded Bangladeshi vessels will be able to cross the Strait of Hormuz very quickly.”
He added that the Iranian government would coordinate with Bangladeshi authorities to resolve the matter.
Addressing the bilateral relationship, Jahanabadi described the ties between the two nations as excellent. “We consider Bangladesh a brotherly country. There is no enmity between us,” he remarked.
Regarding the mediation by Pakistan in talks between Iran and the United States, the ambassador expressed his gratitude to Islamabad and Oman for their efforts in facilitating ceasefire discussions.
He emphasised that Iran is willing to engage in dialogue in Islamabad only if it is conducted on the basis of dignity. “We have sent a message to America that we will talk if the discussions are dignified; otherwise, we will not,” Jahanabadi stated.
He further clarified that Iran would refrain from carrying out attacks for the duration of any agreed ceasefire, though it would be forced to retaliate if the US violated such an agreement.
The envoy was critical of US intentions, alleging that past peace efforts were insincere and designed to portray Iran as the aggressor.
He accused the US of maintaining double standards regarding nuclear energy and attempting to orchestrate a failed regime change in Iran. According to the Ambassador, the US also failed in its attempts to seize control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Jahanabadi further accused the US of committing genocide through attacks on hospitals, universities, and schools, resulting in the deaths of innocent children. He asserted that while Iran does not desire war, it has developed resistance against such aggression.
