India on Saturday dismissed a report by The New York Times claiming that tech billionaire Elon Musk had participated in a recent phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. The government clarified that the conversation was strictly between the two leaders.
Responding to the report, a spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs said, “We have seen the story. The telephone conversation on 24 March was between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump only. As has been stated earlier, it provided the opportunity for exchange of views on the situation in West Asia.”
The clarification comes after The New York Times claimed that Musk had joined the high-level call amid rising tensions over the Iran conflict. “Elon Musk participated in a phone call on Tuesday with President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, an unusual appearance by a private citizen on a call between two heads of state during a wartime crisis,” the report said.
India’s statement effectively rules out any third-party involvement in the sensitive diplomatic exchange.
Backchannel Influence or Coincidence?
The New York Times report, citing US officials, suggested that Musk’s presence could signal improved relations with President Donald Trump following a reported fallout last year.
His business interests, in space, energy, and emerging markets intersect with regions directly impacted by the crisis, including the Gulf and India.
Musk has also been seeking to expand his footprint in India, where regulatory approvals for ventures such as satellite internet services remain pending. However, in light of India’s denial, these claims remain unverified.
PM Modi and Trump Stress Hormuz Security
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said that during the call, the leaders highlighted the importance of ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible amid rising tensions. PM Modi later described the conversation as a “useful exchange,” reiterating India’s support for de-escalation and an early return to peace.
The call coincided with Modi addressing Parliament, warning that any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is “unacceptable.” He cited attacks on commercial vessels and instability along key shipping routes.
Addressing the Lok Sabha, he said India is pursuing diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe passage of its ships. In the Rajya Sabha, he noted that the crisis has unsettled the global economy, disrupted trade routes, and affected supplies of fuel, gas, and fertilisers.
The disruption to shipping has already triggered sharp rises in global energy prices and heightened fears of supply shortages in parts of Asia.