Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the escalating tensions in the Middle East, marking their first direct interaction since the conflict intensified in the region.

During the call, PM Modi expressed deep concern over the growing violence, loss of civilian lives and damage to infrastructure caused by the ongoing hostilities. He emphasized that the safety and security of Indian nationals in the region remains India’s top priority.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods and energy supplies, particularly as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt global oil trade. In a post on X, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged all parties to resolve the crisis through dialogue and diplomacy.

The conversation comes at a time when Iran has blocked the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil and natural gas passes. The blockade, along with attacks on oil facilities and commercial ships amid the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, has caused global concerns over energy supply and rising oil prices.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi regarding the situation. According to reports, Iran has permitted safe passage for Indian oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, and India is negotiating with Tehran to allow around 20 oil and gas tankers to pass through the crucial waterway.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that two Indian nationals were killed and another remains missing after merchant ships came under attack during the ongoing conflict.