PM Modi Speaks to Netanyahu, Calls for Early End to Middle East Hostilities

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid rapidly escalating tensions in the Middle East following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and subsequent retaliatory strikes across the region.

In a statement shared on social media, PM Modi said he conveyed India’s concerns regarding the evolving situation and emphasised that protecting civilians must remain the highest priority. He reiterated India’s position calling for an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue.

The conversation came shortly after the Prime Minister chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), India’s top body on strategic and security affairs. The high-level meeting reviewed the fast-changing developments in West Asia and assessed potential implications for India.

Senior ministers, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, were present at the CCS meeting, along with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other key officials.

According to official sources, discussions focused heavily on the safety of Indian nationals living in the region. Nearly 10,000 Indians reside in Iran, more than 40,000 in Israel, and close to nine million across West Asia and Gulf nations. The government is closely monitoring the situation and reviewing contingency plans in case the conflict intensifies further.

Airspace disruptions across the Middle East have already impacted travel. Hundreds of Indian travellers are reportedly stranded in transit hubs such as Dubai and Doha after flight services were suspended or rerouted due to security concerns.

The CCS also reviewed the economic implications of the crisis, particularly reports of Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical maritime route through which a significant portion of India’s oil imports pass. Any prolonged disruption could affect global energy markets and domestic fuel prices.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Indian missions across the region are maintaining regular contact with citizens and have activated emergency helplines. Authorities are coordinating with airlines and local governments to ensure assistance for stranded passengers.

Earlier, PM Modi had also spoken with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, condemning recent attacks on the United Arab Emirates and expressing solidarity.

India continues to advocate restraint, civilian protection and diplomatic engagement as the conflict threatens broader regional stability.