Iran to Modi: US-Israel must halt aggression amid West Asia war

A significant military conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has been ongoing since February 28, 2026, escalating tensions across West Asia and impacting global markets. The Hindustan Times reported on March 21, 2026, that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian conveyed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that an immediate cessation of aggression by the US and Israel is a prerequisite for ending the war and conflict in the region, along with guarantees against their recurrence. The conflict, initiated by the US and Israel on February 28, 2026, entered its fourth week by March 21, 2026. This offensive, dubbed 'Operation Epic Fury' by the US, involved nearly 900 strikes in the first 12 hours, targeting Iranian missiles, air defenses, military infrastructure, and leadership. Notably, the opening salvo resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and dozens of other officials. However, the attacks also tragically killed approximately 170 civilians when a missile struck a girls' school. The war has exacted a heavy toll, with over 2,000 people reported killed in Iran, Lebanon, and Israel since its inception. In Lebanon alone, Israeli attacks have resulted in over 1,000 deaths and more than 1 million displaced individuals, with UN officials highlighting that the recent escalation has killed or wounded the equivalent of one classroom of children daily. Essential energy infrastructure in Iran and neighboring Gulf states has also been targeted. One of the most significant global repercussions has been the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial conduit for roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. This closure, coupled with attacks on energy facilities, has caused global oil prices to skyrocket by 50% since the war began, threatening a severe global economic shock. The US administration had temporarily lifted sanctions on Iranian oil at sea to mitigate soaring gas prices, although Iran stated it had no surplus crude to offer international markets. The Dallas Federal Reserve noted that a complete cessation of oil exports from the Gulf region would remove close to 20% of global oil supplies, primarily impacting Asia. International reactions have been varied. US President Donald Trump, while considering 'winding down' military operations, publicly criticized NATO allies as 'cowards' for their reluctance to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Germany and France have indicated their readiness to help ensure safe passage through the strait, but only once the fighting ceases. Iran, for its part, reportedly expressed willingness to allow Japanese-related vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has also engaged in retaliatory strikes, including firing missiles at the US/UK Diego Garcia military base in the Indian Ocean and an Israeli town housing a nuclear facility. During his telephone conversation with PM Modi, President Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran did not initiate the war and alleged that the aggressors launched military attacks without justification during ongoing nuclear negotiations. He also proposed establishing a 'regional security framework' composed of West Asian countries to ensure peace and stability through regional cooperation 'without foreign interference.' Furthermore, Pezeshkian called on BRICS, under India's rotating presidency, to play an 'independent role' in halting aggression against Iran and safeguarding regional and international peace and stability. Prime Minister Modi, in turn, conveyed India's deep concerns regarding the escalating tensions in West Asia. His primary points of focus included the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its disruption of merchant shipping, the attacks on energy infrastructure affecting global supplies, and, crucially, the safety and security of the approximately 10 million Indian citizens residing in West Asia. This diplomatic outreach underscores India's strategic interest in regional stability and its role as a significant energy importer and a nation with a large diaspora in the affected areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Read Full Story on Quick Digest