PM Modi speaks with Iran President, backs peace and free navigation in Hormuz Strait

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on recent developments in West Asia and the way ahead in a telephonic conversation on Tuesday.

Modi welcomed the understanding reached on the conflict and reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, including the importance of a free and open Hormuz Strait.

Officials said that Modi made a strong case for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce during the conversation with the President of Iran. "Prime Minister Modi welcomed the understanding reached and reiterated India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy," they said.


Earlier, Pezeshkian had invited Modi to the burial ceremonies for the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to be held next week. According to reports, the government could send Bihar governor Syed Ata Hasnain and minister of state for external affairs Pabitra Margherita for the ceremonies.


"Spoke with the President of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, on the recent developments in West Asia. Welcomed the progress made in the negotiations and expressed hope that continued efforts will lead to lasting peace in the region. Reiterated the importance of freedom of navigation in the Hormuz Strait for India and the World," Modi posted on X.

With maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz normalising after the agreement between Iran and the US, most energy shipments bound for India have cleared the crucial chokepoint. As reported by ET, Iran has also signalled its readiness to resume crude exports following the lifting of sanctions.