The recent visit by India's Deputy National Security Adviser to Tehran has sparked intrigue as tensions escalate between Iran and the United States against the backdrop of protests in Iran. Pavan Kapoor, the Deputy NSA of India, held discussions with Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, during his visit to Tehran on Wednesday.
The Indian embassy in Tehran confirmed the visit, stating, "Deputy National Security Advisor Pavan Kapoor visited Tehran on 28 January 2026 for consultations with his Iranian counterpart Dr. Ali Bagheri Kani, Deputy for International Affairs, SNSC. He also called on Secretary, SNSC Dr. Ali Larijani."
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump took to social media platform Truth Social to address the escalating situation. He highlighted a significant naval deployment towards Iran, emphasizing readiness to act decisively if necessary. Trump urged Iran to return to negotiations and warned of dire consequences if a deal is not reached soon.
In response to Trump's statements, Iran expressed willingness to engage with the US on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests. However, reports emerged of an increased US military presence in the region, raising concerns about a potential escalation of tensions.
The unrest in Iran, triggered by economic hardships and exacerbated by wider grievances, has led to a violent crackdown by Iranian security forces. Mass arrests and intimidation tactics have been employed to quell further protests, marking one of the most significant challenges to the Iranian regime in decades.
Human rights organizations report a staggering death toll, with thousands of individuals detained in the aftermath of the protests. The situation remains volatile, with concerns about further violence and instability in the region.
Shubhajit Roy, a seasoned diplomatic editor with over 25 years of experience, provides valuable insights into the unfolding events. His in-depth coverage of international affairs and political developments offers a comprehensive perspective on the complexities of the situation.
Roy's accolades, including the Ramnath Goenka Journalism Award for Excellence in Journalism, underscore his dedication to reporting on critical issues such as the recent events in Iran. As a leading journalist at The Indian Express, his contributions shed light on the global implications of regional conflicts and diplomatic challenges.
Stay informed with the latest updates on this developing story as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.