New Delhi witnessed a crucial diplomatic exchange on Thursday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders zeroed in on the escalating tensions in West Asia, emphasizing dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable paths to resolution.
PM Modi shared details of the call on X, highlighting their shared commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region. ‘Spoke with my friend Emmanuel Macron today. We discussed the evolving situation in West Asia. We both agree that the current crisis can only be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. We will continue to work together to restore peace and stability in the region so that normalcy returns,’ he posted.
This comes amid the sixth day of intense conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. India expressed profound grief over the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri represented the government by visiting the Iranian embassy in New Delhi, signing the condolence book, and conveying heartfelt condolences.
Parallel diplomatic efforts saw External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaging in talks with his counterparts from Iran, Syed Abbas Araghchi, and Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamoud Albusaidi. These conversations underscore India’s proactive stance in regional mediation.
Tensions spilled over as Iran accused Azerbaijan of drone strikes on an airport and a school, injuring two people. Baku summoned the Iranian ambassador to lodge a strong protest. Notably, Azerbaijan has no US bases but has recently softened its stance toward Washington.
Casualties from US-Israel strikes in Iran have surged to 1,230, according to Iran’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, as cited by Tasnim News Agency. The international community watches closely as world leaders like Modi and Macron push for de-escalation, hoping to avert a broader catastrophe in this volatile region.