As the war rages in West Asia, people across Jammu and Kashmir as also Ladakh have come forward in support of Iran by making donations to help rebuild infrastructure damaged in the strikes. From jewellery and cash to traditional copper utensils, residents have opened their hearts — and homes — towards the relief efforts. Moved by the gesture, Iran has “thanked” the people of India.Social media platforms have been flooded with visuals of people, including elderly women, parting with their gold and silver ornaments to raise funds, reflecting a deep sense of humanitarian concern, cutting across age and economic backgrounds.Members of the Muslim community — especially the Shias — have been at the forefront of these efforts. Infrastructure, including hospitals and educational institutions, has reportedly suffered significant damage in Iran, prompting widespread concern among communities with cultural and religious ties to the region.The Embassy of Iran, in a post on its official handle on X, has expressed gratitude, saying: “We will never forget your kindness and humanity. Thank you, India.”Images circulating online show piles of cash, jewellery and copper utensils collected for relief. Individuals and social groups have been actively appealing for further contributions.National Conference MLA and party chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq has hailed the collective response, saying people from villages to urban centres have come forward to contribute to the official humanitarian relief account operated through the State Bank of India.“This outpouring of support reflects the finest spirit of humanity, where people rise above differences to stand with those in need,” he says as he urges people to donate selflessly.Peoples Democratic Party MLA Muntazir Mehdi, too, has pledged his one month’s salary towards the efforts. “I stand in solidarity with the people of Iran. Humanity must come before everything,” he says.The All J&K Shia Association, which has been spearheading the cause, says the donations have been generous. “We’ll accept donations over the next two to three days, after which the valuables and utensils be will be sold and the proceeds will be sent to the Embassy of Iran. While it is difficult to put a figure on the collections, the entire contribution will go towards the relief efforts in Iran,” says Syed Gazanfer Rizvi, an office-bearer.