Indian Author Arundhati Roy Backs Iran Amidst Conflict

Indian author Arundhati Roy attended an event in New Delhi on Monday to mark the release of her new book, “Mother Mary Comes to Me.” At the gathering, she delivered a passionate speech supporting Iran and its conflict with Israel and the United States. The event was shared by Zeteo on Thursday.

Roy criticized her own government for backing what she considers the wrong side in this conflict, calling it “spineless.” In her remarks, she reflected deeply on the destruction wrought upon Iranian cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and Beirut, saying she couldn’t “end the day without talking about those beautiful cities that are up in flames.” She expressed hope her book could serve as a platform to discuss these broader issues.

Roy likened the attacks on Iran to the “US-Israeli genocide” in Gaza, warning of a world teetering on the brink of nuclear disaster and economic collapse. “The same country that bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki could be readying itself to bomb one of the most ancient civilizations in the world,” she said, before making her position clear: “I stand with Iran. Unambiguously.”

Roy went on to describe the situation as another act of genocide where innocent women and children are murdered, hospitals attacked, and cities carpet bombed. She compared these actions to a playbook used by those targeting Palestinians, accusing Israeli forces of playing the victim.

Her stance marked a continuation of her past criticisms, including withdrawing from the Berlin International Film Festival in February when the jury president suggested cinema should “stay out of politics” regarding Gaza. She also signed a pledge not to work with Israeli cultural institutions.

During her speech, Roy addressed India’s recent trip by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel and its trade ties with the US, accusing them of putting India into an “absolutely humiliating, shameless, disgusting place in the world.” She compared this position to that of “running dogs of imperialism,” aligning India’s actions with those of China.

Roy has a history of speaking out on issues she cares about. Her recent withdrawal from the Berlin International Film Festival and her pledge not to work with Israeli cultural institutions underscore her commitment to supporting Iran, especially in light of international pressure against it.