Iran’s president tells PM Modi the ‘prerequisite’ to end war with US, Israel

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian told Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the “prerequisite” for ending the ongoing conflict in West Asia is the “immediate cessation of aggressions” by the United States and Israel, according to a statement issued by the Iranian Embassy in India on Saturday.

The remarks came during a telephone conversation between the two leaders earlier in the day, where they discussed bilateral ties and the escalating regional situation amid continued military exchanges involving Iran, the US and Israel.



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According to the Iranian side, Pezeshkian said Iran “did not initiate the war” and accused the US and Israel of launching attacks “without any justification, logic, or legal basis,” including during ongoing nuclear negotiations. He alleged that the strikes resulted in the deaths of senior military figures, civilians, and damage to public infrastructure.

The Iranian President also claimed that a school in Minab was targeted from bases in neighbouring countries hosting US forces, leading to the deaths of 168 children. He rejected US assertions that its actions were aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, stating that Iran’s leadership had consistently opposed such weapons.

Tehran’s sharp accusations against US, Israel

Pezeshkian further accused Israel of carrying out attacks across multiple countries in the region, saying such actions were contributing to instability rather than security.

Reiterating Tehran’s stance, he said Iran remains open to dialogue with global leaders, including under international oversight, to demonstrate the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. He also proposed the creation of a regional security framework led by West Asian countries, without external interference.

The Iranian President additionally called on BRICS, under India’s rotating presidency, to play an “independent role” in stopping what he described as aggression against Iran and ensuring regional stability.

Also read: PM Modi speaks to Iran President Pezeshkian on Nowruz, condemns attacks amid West Asia war

Modi flags infrastructure attacks, shipping security

Responding to the developments, Modi expressed “deep concern” over the escalating conflict and stressed that “choosing the path of war is in no one’s interest,” urging all sides to move toward de-escalation and dialogue.

In a statement released earlier today, Modi said, “Spoke with President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed Eid and Nowruz greetings. We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia.”

The Prime Minister condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, warning that such actions threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.

He also underlined the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation, stressing that key shipping lanes must remain open and secure amid rising tensions. Modi further appreciated Iran’s support in ensuring the safety of Indian nationals in the country.

The conversation comes as the conflict in West Asia enters a critical phase, raising concerns over its impact on global energy supplies and regional security.