Iran inscribes ‘Thank You India’ on missiles fired at Israel

In a striking and controversial gesture during the ongoing Middle East conflict, Iran has inscribed messages thanking the “people of India” on missiles launched towards Israel, underscoring a complex mix of symbolism, strategy and sentiment amid intensifying hostilities.

Visuals shared by the Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai and state media show personnel from Iran’s Aerospace Force writing notes such as “Thank you, people of India” in blue marker on missile casings moments before launch. Similar messages were reportedly directed at citizens of Spain, Pakistan and Germany—suggesting a broader attempt by Tehran to acknowledge perceived international goodwill.

The messages appeared during what Iran described as the 83rd wave of its military offensive under “Operation True Promise 4”, conducted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. According to Iranian state broadcaster Press TV, the strikes targeted key American and Israeli assets, including oil storage facilities in Ashdod, military installations near Modi’in, and a US-linked information exchange centre.

Iran also claimed attacks on American bases across the region, including Al-Dhafra, Al-Udeid, Ali Al-Salem Air Base and Sheikh Isa Base, deploying a combination of long- and medium-range missiles, drones, and precision-strike systems. These claims, however, remain independently unverified.

Why India figures in Iran’s messaging

The reference to India comes against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical and humanitarian dynamics. Tehran recently assured safe passage for Indian vessels through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, even as restrictions continue for ships linked to the United States and its allies.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described India as among a select group of “friendly” nations whose maritime movement would not be obstructed despite the conflict.

Beyond diplomacy, grassroots humanitarian support from India—particularly from Jammu and Kashmir—appears to have influenced the messaging. In recent weeks, civilians have organized donation drives for those affected in Iran, contributing cash, jewellery and essential supplies.

One widely shared account involved a Kashmiri woman donating gold preserved for nearly three decades in memory of her late husband. The Iranian Embassy in India publicly acknowledged such gestures, calling them deeply moving and pledging they would “never be forgotten.”

Children’s gesture adds emotional dimension

In a poignant reflection of public sentiment, the Iranian mission in India highlighted contributions from Indian children, who donated their piggy banks to support students of Minab School in Iran—victims of a missile strike during the conflict.

Describing the act as one from “small yet love-filled hearts,” the embassy framed it as a symbol of compassion transcending borders, even as the war continues to claim lives.

India walks a diplomatic tightrope

The episode underscores India’s delicate positioning in a volatile geopolitical landscape. While public expressions of solidarity with Iran have emerged at a grassroots level, New Delhi continues to balance its historical ties with Tehran alongside strategic relationships with the United States and Israel.

India has consistently called for restraint, urging dialogue and diplomacy since the conflict escalated following US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28.

As missiles carry not just payloads but messages, the symbolism reflects a deeper narrative—one where war, perception, and public sentiment intersect in unexpected and uneasy ways.