US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation on Tuesday, focusing on the escalating situation in the Middle East and the importance of maintaining free and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation on Tuesday, focusing on the escalating situation in the Middle East and the importance of maintaining free and secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
The discussion, which lasted nearly 40 minutes, underscored growing global concern over disruptions in the key maritime route amid tensions involving Iran. Both leaders emphasised that the waterway must remain open, given its critical role in global energy supply.
Following the call, Modi said the two leaders reviewed the significant progress made in India-US relations and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership across multiple sectors.
US envoy Sergio Gor later indicated that several major agreements between the two countries are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks, particularly in the energy sector. While he declined to provide specifics, he described the upcoming announcements as "significant" and "exciting".
The leaders' conversation comes against the backdrop of rising tensions in the region, including reports of a US naval blockade of Iranian ports and uncertainty surrounding potential renewed negotiations between Washington and Tehran following earlier talks that failed in Islamabad.
This marks the third interaction between Trump and Modi this year. Their earlier conversations in February and March focused on trade progress and regional security developments.
In a social media post, Modi described Trump as a "friend" and reiterated their shared commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation. He also confirmed that both sides discussed the Iran crisis and the need to ensure stability in international shipping routes.
Gor said Trump used the call to brief Modi on the broader regional situation, highlighting concerns over restrictions affecting maritime traffic. He criticised the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that it has contributed to rising global energy prices and impacted economies worldwide.
The envoy also noted that both leaders discussed the ongoing blockade and agreed on the urgency of restoring normalcy in the region. However, he declined to comment on any future US-Iran negotiations.
On the question of whether India could play a role in easing tensions, Gor said the US remains open to broader international involvement, though any decision would rest with New Delhi.
The call took place shortly after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri concluded a visit to Washington, where efforts were made to stabilise bilateral ties following a period of strain.
Relations between the two countries had been under pressure due to trade disputes, including US tariffs on Indian goods, and remarks by Trump regarding past India-Pakistan tensions. However, both sides have recently taken steps to rebuild cooperation.
Looking ahead, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit India next month for high-level talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other officials. The visit is expected to coincide with the announcement of key agreements, particularly in energy and trade.
Gor also confirmed that preparations are underway for a Quad ministerial meeting in India, reflecting continued strategic coordination between major Indo-Pacific partners.
He emphasised that the upcoming visit by Rubio signals the importance Washington places on its relationship with New Delhi, adding that several major initiatives are likely to be unveiled in the near future.
°C
3
Min
