NEW DELHI, March 24 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump held their first direct conversation since the start of the West Asia hostilities on February 28, focusing on the preservation of global energy flows. During the telephonic exchange on Tuesday, both leaders underscored the critical importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to international trade despite intensifying regional tensions.
U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor confirmed the development, stating that the discussion centered on the evolving security situation and its potential economic implications. Gor affirmed that the stability of the narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman remains a primary concern for both nations. The conversation marks a significant diplomatic engagement as the conflict involving Iran and the U.S.-Israel alliance continues to raise fears of maritime disruptions.
The Prime Minister asserted that the safety of sea lanes is vital for energy-dependent nations like India, which remain vulnerable to supply shocks and price volatility. Officials noted that the Strait of Hormuz serves as a primary transit chokepoint for a significant portion of the world’s daily crude oil supplies. Modi declared that India is closely monitoring the situation to protect its economic interests and the security of its diaspora in the region.
While specific details of the talk were not fully disclosed, the emphasis on maritime security indicates a shared strategy to prevent the widening of the conflict. The Prime Minister maintained that dialogue and restraint are the only viable paths forward to ensure international trade remains unhindered. He affirmed that India will continue its diplomatic engagement with all stakeholders to promote regional stability.
