Trump dials Modi, discusses West Asia crisis, calls for de-escalation
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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with US President Donald Trump, reiterating India’s support for immediate de-escalation and restoration of peace amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
During the call, Modi underscored the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, secure and accessible, calling it vital for global stability. Both leaders agreed to remain in touch regarding efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region.
“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,” Modi said in a post on X.
The conversation comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia following the February 28 strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which led to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran launched drone and missile attacks targeting US and Israeli facilities, regional capitals and allied forces across the region.
The conflict has heightened volatility in global markets, with energy prices remaining sensitive to developments in the region.
Modi and Trump have maintained a high-profile political partnership, marked by major public engagements and continued cooperation in trade, defence and strategic affairs between India and the United States.
Last November, Trump indicated plans to visit India this year, with a presidential trip expected in connection with the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue summit, a key platform for strategic coordination involving India, the US, Japan and Australia in the Indo-Pacific.
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a detailed telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday, focusing on the West Asia crisis and its impact on the global economy and energy security.
“Had a detailed telecon this evening with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Our discussions focused on the West Asia conflict and its impact on the international economy. We particularly spoke about energy security concerns. Agreed to remain in touch,” Jaishankar said on X.
According to a readout by the US State Department, both leaders discussed the situation in the Middle East and agreed on the importance of continued cooperation to advance shared priorities, Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott said.
With IANS inputs