India backs US-Iran ceasefire, urges citizens to leave Iran amid fragile calm

New Delhi: India on Wednesday welcomed the ceasefire arrangement between the US and Iran, expressing hope that the development would pave the way for lasting peace and stability in West Asia. India also said it expected the "global flow of commerce would prevail through the Strait of Hormuz".

In a statement, MEA said, "As we have consistently advocated, de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy are essential to bring an early end to the ongoing conflict... We expect that unimpeded freedom of navigation and the global flow of commerce will prevail through the Strait of Hormuz.... We welcome all steps that lead to peace and stability. We hope that this development will also encourage peace efforts in Ukraine."

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In line with India's strong ties with the Gulf, external affairs minister S Jaishankar will visit the UAE this week, marking the first visit by an Indian minister to the restive region since the conflict began.

Meanwhile, India has issued a fresh advisory for its nationals in Iran, urging them to leave the country in view of potential escalation despite the ceasefire. Sources told ET the next 15 days present the best opportunity for Indians to exit Iran.