India on Tuesday welcomed the ceasefire between Iran and Israel after nearly two weeks of conflict, but it also expressed concern about the wider security and stability of West Asia.

Iran, Israel Agree to US-Brokered Truce

Iran’s state-run TV confirmed that the ceasefire had begun. Later, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement saying that Israel had accepted the ceasefire proposal made by US President Donald Trump the night before.

Before the ceasefire took effect, Iran launched six waves of missile attacks on Israel. In response, Israel destroyed a radar facility near Tehran. However, Israel held back from further strikes after a phone conversation between Trump and Netanyahu.

India Reacts to the Ceasefire

India's external affairs ministry responded with cautious optimism. “While we remain deeply concerned about the prospects for overall and sustained regional security and stability, we welcome reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and the role played by the US and Qatar in bringing it about,” the ministry said in a statement.

India Monitored the Escalation Closely

India had been closely watching the Iran-Israel conflict, especially after the US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities on Sunday. Iran had retaliated by targeting US military bases in Qatar.

India also emphasized the importance of peaceful dialogue. “We wish to reiterate that there is no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy in order to address and resolve the multiple conflicts in the region,” the ministry said.

It added: “India stands ready to play its part in these efforts and hopes that all concerned parties will work towards sustained peace and stability.”

India’s Balanced Approach

India has strong strategic relations with both Iran and Israel. From the start of the conflict, India urged both sides to return to diplomacy and dialogue. The fighting began after Israel launched unilateral military strikes on June 13.

New Delhi grew increasingly worried as tensions escalated. West Asia is a major source of India’s oil and gas, and more than nine million Indians live in the region.

Evacuations Underway

By Tuesday, India had evacuated around 3,200 nationals from both Iran and Israel. There are about 10,000 Indians in Iran, many of whom are students, and over 32,000 Indians living in Israel.

India Distances Itself from SCO Statement

During the conflict, India chose not to support a statement made by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). That statement had condemned Israel’s attacks on Iran, but India did not endorse it.

Modi-Pezeshkian Call Focused on Peace

On Sunday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation. During the call, Modi expressed deep concern over the worsening violence and again urged all parties to return to diplomacy to restore peace and stability in West Asia.