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‘Can’t Even Pick New York Mayor’: Iran’s deputy FM mocks Trump’s demand on Tehran leader at Raisina Dialogue 2026

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh during Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, as Tehran vowed to resist US-Israel pressure and defend its sovereignty amid escalating regional tensions.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht
Updated : 6 March 2026, 1:53 PM IST
‘Can’t Even Pick New York Mayor’: Iran’s deputy FM mocks Trump’s demand on Tehran leader at Raisina Dialogue 2026

S Jaishankar met Iran's Deputy FM Saeed Khatibzadeh, in New Delhi today

New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar met Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh in New Delhi on Friday on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue 2026. The meeting took place during the second day of the international conference, which brings together policymakers, diplomats, and strategic experts from around the world to discuss pressing global challenges.

While details of the bilateral discussion were not officially disclosed, the interaction comes at a time when tensions in the Middle East remain high.

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Can't even pick New York mayor

Speaking during a session at the Raisina Dialogue, Khatibzadeh strongly dismissed remarks by US President Donald Trump suggesting he should have a role in choosing Iran’s next leader, saying the American leader “cannot even appoint the mayor of New York.”

“President Trump is asking for change in the leadership of Iran, and he says that I have to have a voice on that, while he cannot appoint even the mayor of New York," the minister said

He described the ongoing US-Israel offensive as an “existential war” for Tehran and said Iran would aim to end the American presence in the Persian Gulf.

Khatibzadeh Speaks at Raisina Dialogue

Khatibzadeh addressed the current geopolitical situation involving Iran. He said Tehran believes it must defend itself against what it described as pressure and aggression from the United States and Israel.

According to the Iranian official, the country sees itself in a situation where protecting sovereignty and national security has become a priority. He stated that Iran would continue to resist external threats and remain committed to defending its territory and political system.

Criticism of US Leadership

Khatibzadeh also criticised the policies of US President Donald Trump. He argued that calls from Washington for leadership changes in Iran reflect what he described as a colonial mindset.

The Iranian deputy foreign minister said the United States often speaks about democracy but simultaneously supports efforts aimed at altering political systems in other countries. He asserted that such approaches are inconsistent with the principles of national sovereignty.

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Iran’s Position on Security and Unity

Addressing questions about possible military escalation, Khatibzadeh said Iran is prepared to respond to any external intervention. He maintained that the country would resist attempts to impose political changes through foreign pressure or military means.

He also commented on Iran’s Kurdish population, stressing that the Kurdish community is an integral part of the country. According to him, while some separatist groups exist, they are supported by external actors and do not represent the broader Kurdish population within Iran.

The remarks come amid heightened global attention on developments in the Middle East, as diplomatic discussions continue alongside ongoing security concerns.

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 6 March 2026, 1:53 PM IST

Topics : 

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