Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and the US President Donald Trump held their first conversation today (March 23) since the outbreak of the West Asia conflict on February 28, focusing on de-escalation efforts and the strategic importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.
During the call, Modi emphasised that the vital shipping lane must remain “open, secure and accessible” to safeguard global stability and economic well-being. India reiterated its support for an early restoration of peace in the region.
“Had a useful exchange on the situation in West Asia… India supports de-escalation and ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible for the world,” Modi said.
The conversation came a day after Trump extended Washington’s deadline by five days for Iran to reopen the crucial oil transit route, even as he signalled “productive conversations” with Tehran.
Global energy markets have been rattled after Iran effectively blocked the narrow corridor—through which nearly 20% of global oil and LNG supplies pass—triggering a surge in prices and raising concerns for major importers like India.
US envoy Sergio Gor confirmed the leaders discussed the urgency of keeping the waterway operational.
The outreach is part of India’s broader diplomatic push, with Modi speaking in recent days to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as well as leaders across the Gulf and Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also engaged regional counterparts and met Iran’s ambassador Mohammad Fathali, underscoring India’s concern over the escalating crisis.
Officials said New Delhi’s priority remains a swift end to hostilities and uninterrupted energy flows, warning that a prolonged disruption could impact fuel, fertiliser supplies, and even food security globally—echoing the fallout of the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict.
