PM Modi, Saudi Crown Prince discuss Middle East crisis, push for open sea lanes

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a telephonic conversation with Crown Prince and the prime minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, during which both leaders discussed the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.In a post on X, PM Modi said that he reiterated India's condemnation of attacks on regional energy infrastructure and agreed to ensure freedom of navigation and keep shipping lines open and secure. "Spoke with Crown Prince and PM of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed the ongoing conflict in West Asia. I reiterated India's condemnation of attacks on regional energy infrastructure. We agreed on the need to ensure freedom of navigation and keep shipping lines open and secure. Thanked him for his continued support for the welfare of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia," he said.This was the second telephonic conversation between PM Modi and the Crown Prince since the Middle East conflict erupted on February 28.The crisis has seen the United States and Israel launch strikes on Iran, while Tehran has retaliated by targeting Israel and locations across the region.Iran’s strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz — a vital corridor that carries nearly 20 per cent of the world’s energy supplies — has heightened global concern. Since the escalation, shipping through the route has been significantly restricted.He also spoke with US President Donald Trump, describing the conversation as a “useful exchange of views” on the evolving situation in the Middle East.