Middle East crisis: PM Modi speaks to Iranian President Pezeshkian; calls for immediate de-escalation

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian following US strikes on the nation. PM Modi called for immediate "de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy" amid rising tensions in the Middle East as the Israel-Iran crisis entered the tenth day.

"Spoke with President of Iran @drpezeshkian. We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward and for early restoration of regional peace, security and stability," he said in a post on X.


In a call that lasted 45 minutes, Iranian President Pezeshkian described India as a "friend and partner in promoting regional peace, security and stability". He also thanked PM Modi for India's call for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy.


"The call came from Iranian President Pezeshkian in the wake of the US attack on the Iranian Nuclear facilities. The President briefed PM Modi in detail on the evolving situation. The call lasted 45 minutes. The President described India as a friend and partner in promoting regional peace, security and stability and thanked Prime Minister Modi for India's position and call for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy. India’s voice and role were important in the restoration of regional peace and stability," news agency ANI reported citing sources.

PM Modi also thanked Iranian president for ensuring safe return of Indian students. "Prime Minister Modi thanked President Pezeshkian for the continued support being extended for safe return and repatriation of the Indian community. The two leaders reiterated shared commitment to continue to work for strengthening bilateral cooperation in different areas including trade and economic cooperation, Science & Technology and people-to-people ties. They agreed to remain in touch," MEA informed.


The US entered the Israel-Iran crisis after it targeted Iran's three nuclear sites causing significant damage.

Iran has delivered stern warnings against US intervention, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stating that any American attack could result in "irreparable damage," and the foreign ministry cautioning that it might lead to a full-scale regional conflict.

Despite these threats, the US intervened militarily after Israel’s strikes on Iran, which have killed at least 865 people, including civilians and security personnel.