PM Modi Urges Iran President to Ensure Free Navigation in Strait of Hormuz
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian over the phone on Tuesday, emphasising the critical importance of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz for India and the global community. The discussion came amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilise West Asia following recent conflicts.
In a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs, Mr Modi welcomed the understanding reached between the United States and Iran, and reiterated India's consistent position that all issues in the region must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability, and for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce in the strategic waterway.
On social media platform X, the Prime Minister said: “Welcomed the progress made in the negotiations and expressed hope that continued efforts will lead to lasting peace in the region. Reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait for India and the world.”
President Pezeshkian had earlier invited Mr Modi to attend the funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, scheduled to begin on July 4. However, the Indian government decided to send Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain to represent the country at the multi-day event.
According to an Iranian readout of the call, Mr Modi informed Pezeshkian that India would send a special delegation for the funeral.
This was the third conversation between the two leaders since the escalation of hostilities in West Asia on February 28. The talks took place against a backdrop of uncertainty over the implementation of the interim peace deal agreed on June 17. India has pursued a delicate balancing act, condemning attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council countries while maintaining engagement with Iran and affirming that India remains a friend of Tehran.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is vital for global energy supplies, with about 20% of the world's oil passing through it. India, as a major importer of crude oil, relies heavily on secure sea lanes for its energy security. Prime Minister Modi's emphasis on free navigation underscores New Delhi's strategic interests in regional stability.
