New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a 45-minute phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the recent developments following the US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. PM Modi expressed deep concern over the intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel and reiterated India’s consistent call for dialogue, diplomacy, and immediate de-escalation.
Iran Calls India a Key Partner in Peace and Stability
Sources revealed that the call was initiated by President Pezeshkian after US attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites at Natanz, Isfahan, and the underground Fordo facility, which Iran insists are civilian. During the conversation, Pezeshkian described India as a “friend and partner” in ensuring regional peace, and appreciated India’s balanced diplomatic stance.
“Spoke with President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy,” PM Modi posted on X.
Global Tensions Rise Following US and Israeli Strikes
The conflict intensified further as US President Donald Trump warned Iran of “peace or tragedy” in a stern address. Meanwhile, Israel responded with fresh airstrikes targeting Iranian military assets, following Iranian missile attacks that injured Israeli civilians. The situation continues to escalate with wider geopolitical implications.
Impact on India’s Trade and Strategic Interests
Experts warn that the conflict could disrupt India’s trade with West Asian nations such as Iraq, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, and affect vital shipping lanes through the Red Sea. The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, already volatile due to Houthi attacks, is crucial for 80% of India’s trade with Europe and significant trade with the US.
India’s bilateral trade with Iran stood at $1.24 billion in exports (including basmati rice, tea, and soya meal) and $441.8 million in imports in FY25. With Israel, exports reached $2.1 billion and imports $1.6 billion in the same period. Any further escalation poses a serious risk to India’s economic and energy security.
WTO Warns of Global Trade Contraction
Amid ongoing tensions and disrupted shipping routes, the World Trade Organization (WTO) has revised its global outlook, predicting a 0.2% contraction in global trade in 2025, compared to the earlier forecast of 2.7% growth.
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