External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a second telephonic discussion with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi within a week, focusing on the evolving security situation in West Asia. Jaishankar expressed India’s deep concerns regarding recent developments in Iran and the region during the call. This conversation follows their previous talk on February 28, where Jaishankar conveyed India’s worries about the situation.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, representing the Indian government, signed the condolence book at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi to offer condolences on the passing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. India has been vocal about its concerns over the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy to end the hostilities. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the escalating conflict’s impact on civilians and the region’s stability.
India, as a neighboring country with significant interests in the region, is closely monitoring the situation to safeguard the safety and well-being of around one crore Indian citizens residing and working in the Gulf region. The Indian government remains committed to ensuring the security of its nationals and closely follows developments that affect them. Indian Embassies and Consulates in the affected areas are actively assisting Indian nationals and community organizations affected by the conflict.
The conflict in West Asia was triggered by joint US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, targeting Tehran’s missile capabilities and military infrastructure. This operation resulted in casualties among senior Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting retaliatory actions from Iran against US assets and allied forces in the region. The escalating conflict has led to disruptions in normal life, economic activities, and poses challenges to trade and energy supply chains in the region.
