Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called for a united voice to promote peace and dialogue globally as the ongoing conflict in West Asia is disrupting trade, energy supplies and affecting the security of millions of Indians living in the Gulf country.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Modi said, “It has been more than three weeks since the war started in West Asia. This war has created a serious energy crisis in the world. This situation is worrying for India too. The war has affected our trade routes. Due to this, the regular supply of petrol, diesel, gas and fertilizers has been disrupted.”
The Prime Minister said he has had several phone conversations with leaders of the region since the war began and reaffirmed India’s continued engagement with all Gulf countries, Iran, Israel and the United States.
He said, “Approximately one crore Indians live and work in the Gulf countries, and ensuring the security of their lives and livelihoods is a major concern for India. Many ships from around the world are stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, and have a large number of Indian crew members on board, which is a matter of great concern for India. In such a difficult situation, it is necessary that a united voice for peace and dialogue from this Upper House of the Parliament of India reaches out to the entire world.”
Prime Minister Modi said, “Since the war started, I have had two rounds of phone talks with the heads of state of most of the countries in West Asia. We are in constant touch with all the Gulf countries, and we are also in touch with Iran, Israel and the United States.”
The Prime Minister said India is prioritizing the safety of its citizens during the West Asian conflict, noting that more than 3,75,000 Indians have been evacuated so far, including over 1,000 from Iran, and urged all parties to find a peaceful solution.
He said, “Any human threat in this war is not in the interest of humanity, therefore India is making continuous efforts to help all parties reach a peaceful resolution as soon as possible. At this time of crisis, the safety of Indians at home and abroad is our top priority. More than 3,75,000 Indians have returned safely to India since the war began. More than 1,000 Indians have so far returned safely from Iran alone, including medical students.” More than 700 youth are also involved. Our government is working with full sensitivity in this time of crisis.”
Prime Minister Modi said, “Through diplomacy, India is trying to ensure safe movement of the country’s ships even in the event of war. India has opted for resolution through dialogue to resolve this issue.”
The conflict in West Asia has entered its fourth week, disrupting trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Tension further escalated after the assassination of Iran’s 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint military strikes by the US and Israel on February 28.
In response, Iran targeted Israeli and US assets in several Gulf countries, causing further disruption of the waterway and affecting international energy markets as well as global economic stability.
Meanwhile, today Arab News, citing Israeli media outlet Yedioth Ahronoth, reported that Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei was ready to negotiate with the Americans.
Ahernoth cited talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US mediator Steve Witkoff, which were approved by high-level Iranian officials.
