S Jaishankar Urges Israel, Iran To Ease Tensions Amid Escalating Hostilities

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar voiced deep concern over the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, urging both nations to “calm down” amidst the growing unrest in the Middle East.

The concern arose following Iran’s direct attack on Israel, marking a significant escalation following a suspected Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, resulting in casualties including a senior general from the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards.

Addressing reporters, Jaishankar stressed the critical importance of stability in the Middle East, highlighting the region’s significance to the global economy. With approximately one crore Indian citizens residing there, and a significant portion of India’s shipping and oil supply passing through the region, Jaishankar emphasized the sensitivity of the situation.

In efforts to de-escalate tensions, Jaishankar disclosed that he had personally reached out to both Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz. Acknowledging the concerns of both nations, Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to finding peaceful resolutions.

Responding to inquiries about the potential global impact of the Iran-Israel conflict, Jaishankar highlighted the interconnectedness of nations in a globalized world, affirming the Indian government’s resolve to make prudent decisions under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.