Urgent Diplomacy: EAM Jaishankar Connects with Iran’s Araghchi Amid Escalating Israel-US-Iran Crisis and Rising Tensions in the Gulf
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar initiated a crucial dialogue with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Thursday, amid escalating tensions between Israel, the U.S., and Iran, which have also heightened apprehensions among Gulf nations. Jaishankar shared details of the call on social media platform X, highlighting the importance of these discussions during such tumultuous times.
Earlier that day, India expressed its condolences following the death of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri paid respects by signing the condolence book at the Iranian embassy in New Delhi.
The conversation between the foreign ministers comes as the conflict intensified, now in its sixth day since it erupted on March 5. The hostilities began with a joint operation by Israel and the U.S. on February 28, resulting in the death of Khamenei. Iran responded with a series of retaliatory attacks, with explosions reported in various Gulf cities including Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.
On Thursday, Iranian forces launched further strikes on Israeli and American military sites, accompanied by threats directed at the U.S. following the alleged sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean. The Moudge-class frigate had recently participated in a naval exercise, returning home from India with about 130 sailors aboard when it was struck off Sri Lanka’s coast. Iranian officials condemned the attack, deeming it a grave provocation.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed profound concern regarding the escalating conflict, urging all involved parties to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety of civilians. The ministry stressed the importance of safeguarding the approximately 10 million Indian citizens residing in the Gulf region. “Their safety and well-being are of utmost priority. We cannot disregard developments that could adversely impact them,” the statement conveyed.
Furthermore, the ministry warned of potential repercussions for India’s trade and energy supply chains due to the ongoing unrest, particularly as these crucial links traverse the affected areas. “Any significant disruption could have severe consequences for the Indian economy. As a country with many nationals engaged in the global workforce, India is firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping,” the official release stated. It also lamented the loss or disappearance of Indian nationals in the recent spate of violence.
In conclusion, India has reiterated its calls for dialogue and diplomatic solutions to resolve the conflict. “We advocate for an immediate end to hostilities. Many lives have already been tragically lost, and we express our profound sorrow over these losses,” the ministry’s statement emphasized.
As tensions continue to escalate in this complex geopolitical landscape, India’s proactive diplomatic efforts reflect its commitment to regional stability and the protection of its citizens abroad.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/eam-jaishankar-dials-iran-counterpart-araghchi-as-israel-us-iran-conflict-rages-on-tensions-persist-in-gulf-nations-11772714927843.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-03-05 19:00:00
