EAM Jaishankar speaks to Iran FM, urges safety of commercial shipping amidst West Asia tensions

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday said he spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, and conveyed India's "deep concerns" over the continuing hostilities in the region, while urging that commercial shipping and seafarers not be targeted under any circumstances.

In a post on X after the telephonic conversation, Jaishankar said India had stressed the need to safeguard maritime trade and reiterated its opposition to attacks on commercial vessels.

"Had a tele-conversation with FM @araghchi of Iran this evening. Conveyed our deep concerns at the ongoing hostilities in the region," Jaishankar said.



He added that India had "strongly urged that attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers be avoided under any circumstance," asserting that "India condemns any such attack by any party."

The conversation comes amid heightened tensions in the region and growing concerns over the safety of international shipping routes, which are critical for global trade and energy supplies.

Jaishankar said the Iranian foreign minister briefed him on Tehran's assessment of the evolving situation and the diplomatic efforts currently underway.

"Was apprised of Iran's perspective of current developments and discussions underway," he said.

Reiterating India's position, the external affairs minister said the country continued to back diplomatic engagement as the preferred way to address the crisis.

"India is always supportive of dialogue and diplomacy," he added.