Indian author Arundhati Roy criticised the United States and Israel over reported attacks on Iran, describing the military action as a violation of international law and warning that rising tensions in West Asia could trigger a wider global crisis.
Roy made the remarks during a discussion on her new book “Mother Mary Comes to Me”. Referring to the current situation in the region, she said cities such as Tehran, Isfahan and Beirut were experiencing violence and that the regional conflict was deepening rapidly.
Her comments came amid reports of a severe attack on Iran by the United States and Israel and circulating claims that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been targeted and killed.
Roy said the military action by the United States and Israel was against international law and the principles of global peace. According to her, attacks on a sovereign country could lead to serious consequences. She alleged that ongoing conflicts in West Asia were causing heavy losses among civilians and children.
Roy said the impact of violence and military action is felt most bly by ordinary people. She also referred to the conflict in Gaza and said the humanitarian crisis in the region continued to deepen. According to Roy, war and military attacks do not resolve problems but make them more complex.
Roy warned that if the conflict escalates further and more countries become involved, it could develop into a global crisis. Referring to the threat posed by nuclear weapons, she said the world was already passing through an unstable period.
Citing the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Roy said history demonstrates how war can produce destructive consequences. She warned that increasing military competition and the presence of nuclear weapons could push the world toward large-scale destruction.
Roy also commented on India’s foreign policy and questioned the absence of an official response from the Indian government to the developments. She said India has historically been known for an independent foreign policy and for taking clear positions on global issues.
According to Roy, the lack of an official response in the current situation raises questions. She said a large democracy such as India is expected to raise a clear voice in support of global peace and international law.
During the discussion, Roy also referred to the growing relations between India and Western countries in recent years. She said maintaining balance in international diplomacy is important.
According to Roy, every country should shape its foreign policy in a way that respects both national interests and the principles of international peace and justice.
Roy also said political change in any country should not take place through external military intervention. According to her, real change always comes through public participation and democratic processes. She said whether it is the United States, Israel, Iran or India, any change in government should occur through democratic means.
