Muslim communities in Indian-controlled Kashmir are organizing widespread donation drives to support Iran during the ongoing Middle East war. Residents are contributing gold jewelry, cash, household items, and livestock through door-to-door collections and community stalls. The fundraising efforts peaked during Eid al-Fitr celebrations as locals express solidarity with Iran.
SRINAGAR, India (AP) — Despite being located over 1,000 kilometers away from the Iranian conflict zone, Muslim communities in Indian-controlled Kashmir have launched extensive fundraising campaigns to assist Iranians, gathering everything from precious metals and money to household goods and farm animals.
Local organizers and community elders have established donation stations throughout this predominantly Muslim area of the contested Himalayan territory, which remains divided between India and Pakistan while both nations claim complete sovereignty. Volunteer teams are conducting house-to-house visits to gather contributions.
Female residents are contributing their precious gold accessories, including bracelets and earrings. Numerous families have donated traditional copper cookware and farm animals, while young people have brought their personal savings — with some children carrying their piggy banks directly to donation centers.
More affluent community members are transferring money directly to the Iranian Embassy’s humanitarian fund in New Delhi, which was established at the beginning of this month.
“My heart is with Iran, and I am offering my only pair of gold earrings,” said Shazia Batool, a young girl. “Sending help is the least we can do.”
The donation campaign intensified on Saturday during Eid al-Fitr celebrations, the festival that concludes the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Maqsood Ali, a volunteer, said that instead of focusing on just “feasts and family gatherings,” many turned the holiday into “something noble.”
Social media videos show Kashmiri residents explaining their view that assisting Iranians represents both a humanitarian obligation and religious responsibility. The Iranian Embassy acknowledged the support in a social media message, expressing gratitude to Kashmir’s population for their solidarity.
Following the commencement of the U.S. and Israeli military action against Iran on February 28, widespread demonstrations broke out across this region of Kashmir, where many residents, including the area’s Shiite minority population, maintain deep cultural and religious connections with Iran.
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