PM Modi, Netanyahu Hold Talks Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Tensions; India Urges Peace
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a phone call from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday evening, during which the two leaders discussed the rapidly escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran. The conversation comes in the wake of “Operation Rising Lion”, Israel’s latest military offensive reportedly targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu briefed PM Modi on the ongoing developments in the region. In response, PM Modi expressed New Delhi’s deep concern over the unfolding situation and stressed the urgent need for peace and stability to return to the region. The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact as the situation evolves.
Later, in a post on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, “Received a phone call from PM Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation. I shared India’s concerns and emphasised the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region.”
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. In a separate post on X, Jaishankar said, “Received a call this afternoon from FM Gideon Sa’ar of Israel regarding ongoing developments.”
Earlier in the day, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over rising regional tensions and the reported attacks on nuclear facilities. “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation,” the MEA said, calling on both Israel and Iran to avoid further escalation and to pursue diplomatic avenues.
“Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to work towards de-escalation and resolving underlying issues,” the MEA statement added. It reiterated India’s readiness to support any peace initiative, emphasizing that “India enjoys close and friendly relations with both countries and stands ready to extend all possible support.”
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Friday confirmed they had carried out a “precise, preemptive strike” inside Iranian territory. The IDF claimed the strikes were aimed at disrupting Tehran’s nuclear capabilities and were conducted in response to what it described as “continued aggression” from the Iranian regime.
As tensions in West Asia rise, India’s balanced diplomatic outreach underscores its strategic ties with both nations while advocating for regional peace and de-escalation.
