PM Modi invokes Covid resolve to tackle West Asia crisis

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned that global disruptions triggered by the West Asia conflict could persist, urging the nation to stay prepared and united as it did during the pandemic.

In his Lok Sabha statement on Monday, Modi addressed concerns over fuel, fertiliser, national security and the safety of Indians in the region, outlining steps taken to ensure that “ordinary families face as little trouble as possible.” He called for a unified message from Parliament to the world on the crisis. Reaffirming India’s commitment to peace, he said dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path forward, with India pushing for de-escalation and cessation of hostilities.

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Disruption ‘Unacceptable

Modi said he has engaged with key West Asian leaders, urging restraint. The Prime Minister’s statement was made before Trump’s post and statements on the conflict.

Modi termed attacks on commercial shipping and disruptions in critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz — which carries nearly 20% of global energy supplies — “wholly unacceptable,” stressing that endangering lives runs counter to humanity’s interests. Detailing India’s stance since the conflict escalated following US and Israeli strikes on Iran and the subsequent retaliation, Modi said New Delhi has consistently expressed concern, opposed attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, and pushed for de-escalation. On maritime safety, he said diplomatic efforts have ensured safe passage for Indian vessels, with several ships recently coming through the Strait of Hormuz.

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Modi cautioned that some elements may try to exploit the situation, without elaborating. He said all agencies are on alert and security across the coastal, border, cyber and strategic domains is being strengthened. Urging vigilance, the Prime Minister cautioned against misinformation, black-marketing and hoarding, asking states to ensure strict monitoring and swift action.

Highlighting India’s preparedness, Modi said energy diversification has expanded import sources from 27 to 41 countries over the past decade, reducing dependence on any single region. He noted that India holds over 5.3 million metric tonnes of strategic petroleum reserves and is expanding storage capacity further.

The Prime Minister said more than 375,000 Indians have come back home since the conflict began, including around 1,000 from Iran, many of them students. He acknowledged the broader economic impact, noting that West Asia remains central to global energy supplies. The government, he said, is working on short, medium and long-term strategies, backed by daily monitoring of supply chains by an inter-ministerial group. Modi said India remains prepared — foodgrain stocks are adequate, fertiliser supplies have been arranged for kharif sowing, power plants have sufficient coal, and renewable energy capacity has expanded.

Expressing confidence, he said that with collective effort, India will navigate the crisis effectively, even as the conflict continues to weigh on the global economy and people’s lives.