New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, March 21, 2026, amid the escalating crisis in West Asia. The Prime Minister extended greetings for both Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz, expressing India’s hope that the festive season would usher in a period of peace and stability for a region currently embroiled in a four-week-long conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
During the conversation, PM Modi took a firm stance on the recent military escalations, specifically condemning the attacks on critical infrastructure in the region. He noted that such disruptions not only threaten regional security but have a direct, negative impact on global supply chains. This follows recent spikes in fuel and fertilizer prices in India and abroad, largely attributed to the maritime volatility in the Gulf.
Key highlights of the discussion included:
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Maritime Security: The Prime Minister reiterated the vital importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that major shipping lanes remain open and secure for international trade.
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Protection of Nationals: PM Modi expressed his appreciation for Iran’s continued support in ensuring the safety and security of Indian nationals currently residing or working in Iran.
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Diplomatic Solidarity: Both leaders expressed a shared desire for the restoration of prosperity and the de-escalation of hostilities to prevent further humanitarian and economic distress.
The call comes shortly after President Pezeshkian’s proposal for an “Islamic Assembly of the Middle East,” signaling India’s active diplomatic engagement with Tehran even as the geopolitical landscape remains highly volatile. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on open shipping lanes is particularly significant given the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz to much of the world’s maritime traffic over the past month.
