Post by : Shakul

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday, marking their first direct communication since the ongoing conflict in the Middle East began. During the call, the Prime Minister emphasized India’s deep concern over the escalation of tensions, loss of civilian lives, and destruction of infrastructure in the region.

PM Modi underscored that the safety and security of Indian nationals — including those working and living in the Gulf — along with the unhindered transit of goods and energy supplies are New Delhi’s top priorities. He reiterated India’s commitment to peace, stability, dialogue and diplomacy to de‑escalate the crisis.

Responding to growing fears over disrupted trade routes due to the crisis, the call took place against the backdrop of Iran’s temporary blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor through which a significant share of India’s energy imports transit.

Following separate diplomatic engagement by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar with Iranian officials, Tehran has agreed to allow safe passage of Indian‑flagged oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. India is also reportedly negotiating to secure transit approval for up to 20 fuel and energy tankers amid the conflict.

The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that two Indian nationals have died and another is missing after merchant ships came under attack during the hostilities. Indian foreign missions continue to coordinate closely with affected nationals in the region.

India’s efforts come as the wider conflict has triggered global energy price fluctuations, disrupted shipping lanes, and heightened geopolitical concerns in West Asia — underscoring New Delhi’s diplomatic balancing act of ensuring citizens’ safety and securing vital energy imports.

#India News #Asia News #Politics