In a phone conversation, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi focused on the ongoing crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, which remains partially blocked by Iran. Modi emphasised India’s commitment to de-escalation and called for the earliest possible restoration of peace, highlighting the strategic importance of safe maritime passage for global stability and economic well-being.
The call came a day after Trump announced a five-day postponement of planned strikes on Iranian energy facilities. The delay has raised hopes of a reduction in hostilities, coinciding with reports that the US is considering sending Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for discussions with Iranian officials. This marks the first direct conversation between Modi and Trump since early February, when the leaders had finalised a trade deal that significantly lowered tariffs on Indian goods from fifty to eighteen percent.
Global Energy and Security Concerns Take Centre Stage
Modi’s communication underscored the criticality of keeping the Strait of Hormuz accessible and secure. “Ensuring that the Strait remains open is essential for the entire world,” he noted in a post on X, adding that both leaders agreed to maintain close contact on efforts to stabilise the region.
India has continued diplomatic engagement with Tehran to facilitate the passage of its commercial vessels, many of which remain stalled at the strategic chokepoint. While several Indian ships have been allowed transit over the past two weeks, government sources confirm ongoing negotiations to ensure broader movement. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, to discuss India’s concerns and thank Iran for supporting Indian nationals during the crisis.
The US administration appears to recognise Pakistan’s potential role in mediating the conflict. Trump shared a screenshot of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s public offer to host talks between the US and Iran for a comprehensive resolution, signalling a subtle endorsement of Islamabad’s diplomatic initiative.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
In addition to his conversation with Trump, Modi spoke with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, focusing on energy security and regional cooperation. Modi highlighted progress in India-Sri Lanka energy projects and reiterated the commitment of both nations to address shared challenges in West Asia.
The Ministry of External Affairs has maintained a cautious stance regarding Trump’s postponed military action, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirming that India’s approach emphasises dialogue and diplomacy as the only sustainable path to peace. Unlike several Western allies, India has not expressed interest in joining a US-led naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
With global oil markets sensitive to disruptions and Gulf allies navigating complex security dynamics, India’s measured diplomacy and direct engagement with all stakeholders underline its strategic interest in stability, energy security, and the uninterrupted movement of trade across one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
