‘Just Reduce the Random Bakwaas’: Iran Trolls Trump Over 'Hellhole' Jab at India

United States President Donald Trump's inflammatory reference to India as a "hellhole" on Thursday drew sharp reactions from both India and, in a surprising twist, Iran, with the latter's diplomatic handles on social media delivering a pointed rebuke laced with humour.

It was Iran, not typically counted among India's closest allies, that came out swinging on social media.

The consulate general of Iran in Mumbai posted a video on X showcasing two contrasting sides of Maharashtra, one capturing the dynamic pace of city life including BEST buses, roads and highways, and the other highlighting the state's scenic waterfalls and mountains.

The handle captioned the post: "Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr. #Trump, it might just reduce the random bakwaas [nonsense]. Kabhi #India aa ke dekho, phir bolna."

Iran's Hyderabad handle took a sharper, more political tone.

What Did Trump Say About India and China in His 'Hellhole' Re-Post?

"China and India are the cradles of Civilization. In fact, the #hellhole is where its war-criminal president threatened to decimate the civilization in Iran," the post read, drawing a pointed contrast between ancient civilisations and what it described as American aggression.

The controversy stemmed from a post Trump shared on Truth Social, apparently a transcription of remarks by conservative podcast host Michael Savage, denouncing the US constitutional right to birthright citizenship.

"A baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet," the post said.

The four-page content also, without evidence, accused Indian immigrants in the tech industry of not hiring white native-born Americans and inaccurately alleged that Indian immigrants lack English proficiency.

India's official response was measured but unambiguous. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the remarks were "obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste," adding, "They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests."

The timing of Trump's remarks is particularly notable. They come ahead of a planned visit to India next month by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is expected to work toward easing recent tensions between the two otherwise friendly nations.