New Delhi, March 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday intensified India’s diplomatic outreach on the escalating West Asia crisis, holding a series of telephonic conversations with key regional and global leaders and strongly pitching for dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable path to restore peace and stability.
In a day marked by multiple high-level engagements, Modi spoke with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, French President Emmanuel Macron and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, while also following up on discussions held a day earlier with Kuwait Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.
Oman: Condemns sovereignty violation, praises evacuation efforts
The two leaders agreed that dialogue and diplomacy must be prioritised to achieve de-escalation and ensure long-term peace. They also underscored the importance of maintaining safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies.
Jordan: Concern over escalation, warning on energy infrastructure attacks
In his call with King Abdullah II — the second interaction between the two leaders this month — Modi expressed concern over the evolving security situation and stressed the urgent need for restoring peace, security and stability.
He condemned attacks on energy infrastructure in the region, cautioning that such actions could trigger wider escalation. Modi also acknowledged Jordan’s efforts in assisting the evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in conflict-affected areas.
Both leaders reiterated their support for unhindered transit of goods and energy, emphasising the global economic implications of prolonged instability in the region.
France: Push for coordinated global response
In his conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Modi highlighted the urgency of de-escalation and called for a return to dialogue and diplomacy. The two leaders agreed to continue close coordination in advancing peace and stability not only in West Asia but also in the broader international context.
Malaysia: Shared commitment to peace through diplomacy
Modi also spoke to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, with both sides expressing concern over the crisis and reaffirming their shared commitment to restoring peace through diplomatic means. The Prime Minister extended greetings ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri during the interaction.
Kuwait: Reiterates condemnation, thanks for support to Indian community
A day earlier, Modi had spoken to Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, during which he reiterated India’s condemnation of attacks on Kuwait’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He also thanked the Kuwaiti leadership for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian diaspora and extended Eid greetings. Both sides discussed the evolving regional situation and emphasised the importance of continued diplomatic engagement.
Broader outreach: India engages entire region
The Prime Minister’s latest round of calls is part of a broader and sustained diplomatic effort by India to remain closely engaged with all major stakeholders in the region. In recent days, Modi has spoken with leaders of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Israel, Bahrain, Qatar and others, signalling India’s proactive role in addressing the crisis.
India’s outreach has focused on three key priorities: pushing for de-escalation through dialogue, safeguarding Indian nationals in the region, and ensuring uninterrupted movement of global energy supplies, particularly through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Backdrop: Escalating conflict in West Asia
The flurry of diplomatic activity comes in the wake of a major escalation triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, which reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with several top military officials.
In retaliation, Iran launched a series of drone and missile attacks targeting US and Israeli facilities, as well as locations across West Asia, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.
The situation has also heightened concerns over global energy security, with attacks on infrastructure and threats to key shipping routes adding to volatility.
India’s position: Dialogue, restraint, and stability
Throughout the engagements, India maintained a clear and consistent stance — condemning violations of sovereignty, opposing attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure, and advocating restraint by all parties.
The Prime Minister underscored that sustained diplomatic engagement remains the only effective pathway to restore peace and stability in West Asia, while also stressing the need to protect civilians, secure critical supply chains, and prevent further escalation. (Agencies)
