The Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday clarified that the phone conversation held on March 24 between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump involved only the two leaders. The ministry dismissed reports claiming that billionaire Elon Musk had joined the call. Earlier, The New York Times reported that Musk took part in the conversation, describing it as a rare instance where a private individual joined a high-level discussion between two heads of state during an ongoing conflict.

MEA Issues Official Clarification

Responding to the report, a spokesperson from the Ministry of External Affairs rejected the claim. "We have seen the story. The telephone conversation on 24 March was between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump only," the spokesperson said, according to ANI. The official further added, "As has been stated earlier, it provided the opportunity for exchange of views on the situation in West Asia."

Modi–Trump Discuss West Asia Crisis

During the call, both leaders focused on the evolving situation in West Asia. They discussed the need to maintain stability and avoid further escalation. PM Modi highlighted the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. He stressed that the waterway plays a critical role in global energy supply.

“Received a call from President Trump and had a useful exchange of views on the situation in West Asia. India supports de-escalation and restoration of peace at the earliest. Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and accessible is essential for the whole world. We agreed to stay in touch regarding efforts towards peace and stability,” he said.

Received a call from President Trump and had a useful exchange of views on the situation in West Asia. India supports de-escalation and restoration of peace at the earliest. Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and accessible is essential for the whole world.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2026

Uncertainty Over Musk’s Reported Role

According to The New York Times, it remained unclear why Elon Musk was reportedly included in the call or whether he actively spoke during the discussion. However, India’s official clarification has now ruled out his participation.

Trump Praises India-US Relations

Meanwhile, the US Embassy in India shared a message from Donald Trump praising ties between the two countries. “Our amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward. Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that get things done, something that cannot be said for most,” Trump said. This statement came at a time when global attention remains focused on the Middle East conflict, especially after US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

Our amazing relationship with India will be even stronger going forward. Prime Minister Modi and I are two people that get things done, something that cannot be said for most. - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/NEJCjGBXps

— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) March 27, 2026