Politics

PM Modi discusses regional stability, maritime security with Iran’s President Pezeshkian

March 21, 2026

India calls for safe shipping routes during Modi-Pezeshkian conversation

PM stresses freedom of navigation and safe shipping lanes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, conveying Eid and Nowruz greetings while emphasising the need to ensure secure and open shipping lanes amid rising tensions in West Asia.

In a post on X, the prime minister said he had conveyed his greetings to the Iranian leader and discussed the evolving regional situation.

“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,” Modi wrote.

India condemns attacks on critical infrastructure

The prime minister also condemned attacks on key infrastructure in the region, warning that such actions threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.

He stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that international shipping routes remain open and secure.

Maritime security has become a growing concern as tensions escalate in West Asia and shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz faces increasing uncertainty.

India thanks Iran for support to its citizens

Modi also appreciated Iran’s continued cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of Indian nationals residing in the country.

This was the second telephonic conversation between the two leaders since the ongoing conflict in the region began on February 28.

Earlier call discussed evolving security situation

During their previous conversation on March 12, President Pezeshkian had briefed Modi on the situation in Iran and shared Tehran’s perspective on developments in the region.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the prime minister had expressed deep concern over the evolving security environment and reiterated India’s consistent position that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

Global concern over Strait of Hormuz

Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most crucial maritime chokepoints through which nearly 20 per cent of global energy supplies pass.

Since the outbreak of the conflict, shipping traffic through the route has slowed significantly, with Iran reportedly allowing only a limited number of vessels to pass.

Modi speaks with multiple world leaders

Since the conflict erupted, Prime Minister Modi has held discussions with several global leaders to address regional stability and economic concerns.

These include leaders from Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, France and Malaysia.

India has consistently called for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement to resolve the crisis.

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