In a call with Iran's leader, PM Modi condemned infrastructure attacks disrupting supply chains, urging secure shipping and freedom of navigation
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in West Asia and stressed the need to keep shipping lanes open and secure. He also appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals.
“Spoke with President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed Eid and Nowruz greetings. We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia. Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains. Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure. Appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X.
A statement from President Pezeshkian’s office said he reiterated Iran’s readiness to engage in both telephonic and in-person dialogue with world leaders, including on the sidelines of the UN, for verification and oversight of its peaceful nuclear programme. Referring to India’s rotating presidency of BRICS, he called for the grouping to play an independent role in halting aggression against Iran and safeguarding regional and global peace.
This was the second telephonic conversation between Modi and the Iranian President since the conflict began on February 28. On March 12, President Pezeshkian briefed Modi on the situation in Iran and shared his perspective on recent developments. The Prime Minister had expressed concern over the evolving security situation and reiterated that issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
Since the conflict in West Asia began, Modi has been engaging with several global leaders, stressing the need for de-escalation. He has spoken with leaders of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, France and Malaysia.
Earlier, Modi spoke with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, during which they exchanged Eid greetings and discussed regional security concerns. He reiterated India’s solidarity with Qatar and condemned attacks on the region’s energy infrastructure. He also thanked Qatar for supporting the Indian community and expressed hope for peace and stability. Both leaders affirmed the importance of safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Modi also held discussions with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the situation in West Asia. He discussed regional developments with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, noting that both nations support unhindered transit of goods and energy.
In his conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Modi stressed the need for de-escalation and early restoration of peace through dialogue and diplomacy. During talks with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, both leaders emphasised prioritising dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability in the region.
