PM Modi speaks with Iran’s President Pezeshkian on West Asia crisis: 'Deep concern over escalation, loss of civilian lives'

Speaking earlier at the NXT Summit in New Delhi, PM Modi said his government is focused on shielding Indian citizens from the fallout of international conflicts.

• PM Modi spoke with Iran's President on West Asia tensions.
• India prioritizes citizen safety and energy supply amid crisis.
• Modi urges vigilance against black marketing during conflict.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday as tensions across West Asia continue to intensify, raising concerns about civilian casualties, regional stability and the safety of Indian nationals.

Sharing details of the interaction on X, Modi said the two leaders discussed the worsening situation in the region. “Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure.”

The Prime Minister added that India’s key priorities remain the security of its citizens and uninterrupted movement of goods and energy supplies. “The safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. Reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy,” he wrote.

The conversation comes at a time when the ongoing conflict in West Asia has entered its 13th day, with global energy markets facing uncertainty following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking earlier at the NXT Summit in New Delhi, PM Modi said his government is focused on shielding Indian citizens from the fallout of international conflicts. He reiterated that authorities are working to ensure that the effects of the crisis do not translate into hardships for people at home.

The Prime Minister pointed to India’s response during the Russia-Ukraine conflict as an example of how the government handled economic pressures arising from global turmoil. “…the Indian government has always made every effort to ensure that the burden of the war's consequences doesn't fall on Indian citizens. And when the Russia-Ukraine crisis escalated, fertiliser prices skyrocketed. Despite this, we provided our farmers with a bag of urea for Rs 300, which used to cost Rs 3,000 in the international market,” he said.

Seeking cooperation from state authorities, PM Modi also urged strict vigilance against market manipulation and misinformation during the current crisis.

“This time too, we will make every effort to ensure that the war has minimal impact on the lives of our farmers and citizens. In this crucial time, from this platform, I also request the state governments: it's essential to prevent black marketing and the spread of rumours. Therefore, careful monitoring of the situation is essential. Major action should be taken against those engaging in black marketing...” he said.

PM Modi also used the platform to highlight his government’s broader governance approach. “The past decade has been a period of self-reliance as well as sensitive governance. A large part of our country's people have remained outside the thinking of the Congress governments in Delhi. However, our government has connected those left behind in the race for development with governance priorities.”