Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation late on Thursday with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the worsening situation in West Asia. During the discussion, Modi stressed that protecting Indian citizens and ensuring the smooth movement of goods and energy supplies are India’s key priorities. The two leaders spoke about the “serious situation” developing in the region due to the ongoing conflict. The prime minister also expressed concern about the increasing violence and its impact on civilians.
Concern Over Civilian Deaths and Infrastructure Damage
Modi highlighted the growing humanitarian cost of the conflict, including the loss of civilian lives and destruction of infrastructure.
“Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” PM Modi said in a post on X.
He also reiterated India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy are the best ways to resolve the crisis.
India Calls for Peace and Diplomacy
During the conversation, Modi underlined India’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. He urged all sides involved in the conflict to reduce tensions and resolve their differences through diplomatic engagement.
According to an official government statement, President Pezeshkian shared his view of the current situation in Iran and explained recent developments in the region. The statement added that both leaders agreed to remain in contact as the situation evolves.
Strait of Hormuz Closure Raises Concerns for India
The conflict has already started affecting global trade and energy routes. Iran has shut the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, which is a major passage for oil shipments to India.
The closure is particularly significant because a large portion of India’s energy imports travels through this narrow waterway. Two days earlier, Iranian forces reportedly fired at a bulk oil carrier heading toward India as it attempted to pass through the strait.
Modi Holds Talks With Several West Asian Leaders
Over the past ten days, Modi has been actively engaging with leaders from across West Asia after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran last month.
The strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and triggered a wider conflict.
In response, Iran launched drones and missiles targeting Israel and several US military bases across the Gulf region. Some attacks occurred near major international hubs such as Dubai and Doha.
Focus on Safety of Indian Community Abroad
During the crisis, Modi has spoken with leaders from several countries in the region, including Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Israel and Qatar.
In these discussions, he raised concerns about the ongoing attacks and criticised violations of sovereignty and territorial integrity. The safety and welfare of the Indian diaspora in the region has also been a major focus.
Nearly one crore Indians currently live in Gulf and West Asian countries. This includes around 10,000 people in Iran and more than 40,000 Indians living in Israel.