Iran-Israel war: India calls for immediate de-escalation
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New Delhi: As a joint military strike by the US and Israel on Iran triggered fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East, India on Saturday urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid escalation, emphasising that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected, reports PTI.
In its first reaction to the fast-evolving situation in the region, New Delhi said it is "deeply concerned" over the developments in Iran and the Gulf region, and that "dialogue and diplomacy" should be pursued to de-escalate tensions.
Separately, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held phone conversations with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa'ar.
Jaishankar conveyed to Araghchi India's deep concern over the developments in Iran and the region.
Any prolonged instability in the region will be detrimental to India's national interests, as it remains a major source of New Delhi's energy security and is home to millions of Indian nationals.
Following the attack by the US and Israel, Iran launched retaliatory military strikes targeting Israel and American military bases across the region, including in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan.
Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump, announcing the military offensive against Tehran, called on the people of Iran to "take over" the government, saying: It will be "probably your only chance for generations".
The US-Israel joint strikes on Iran came after weeks of negotiations between Washington and Tehran on the Iranian nuclear programme did not produce any tangible outcome.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India is deeply concerned about the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region.
"We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians," the MEA said.
