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New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed India’s deep concern over the escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel, urging both nations to “calm down” amidst spiralling tension in the Middle East.
Mr. Jaishankar underscored the critical importance of the region, stating, “This is a very crucial region for the global economy.” He highlighted the significant presence of Indian citizens in the area, estimating around 90 lakh individuals, and emphasized the region’s vital role in global shipping and oil trade.
Addressing reporters, Mr. Jaishankar emphasized the need for stability in the Middle East, citing its sensitivity and the potential adverse impact on global affairs. He disclosed his efforts to mitigate the situation, including recent phone calls to Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Israeli counterpart Israel Katz, urging both sides to exercise restraint.
Acknowledging the concerns of both nations, Mr. Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to finding peaceful resolutions, emphasizing the necessity for de-escalation to safeguard global interests.
Responding to queries regarding the potential repercussions of the conflict, Mr. Jaishankar emphasized the interconnectedness of the globalized world, noting that no country can remain unaffected. However, he expressed confidence in the government’s ability, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to make informed and decisive decisions in such challenging circumstances.
