New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday regarding the escalating situation in West Asia and emphasized the critical necessity for de-escalation alongside a return to dialogue and diplomatic efforts.

In a message shared on X, PM Modi remarked, "I had a conversation with my esteemed friend, President Emmanuel Macron, concerning the circumstances in West Asia and the pressing need for de-escalation, along with a reinstatement of dialogue and diplomacy. We are eager to maintain our collaborative efforts to promote peace and stability in the region and beyond."

This telephonic dialogue occurred against the backdrop of the ongoing turmoil in West Asia, which intensified following the US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, leading to the demise of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking military officials. In retaliation, Iran initiated drone and missile strikes targeting US and Israeli installations, as well as allied forces in the region.

Recently, PM Modi has also reached out to leaders from Kuwait, UAE, Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar, maintaining India's engagement with regional governments and key partners amid the ongoing crisis.

On Wednesday, PM Modi conversed with Kuwait's Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, discussing the evolving dynamics in West Asia and expressing concerns about recent incidents.

During the call, PM Modi reiterated India's condemnation of assaults on Kuwait's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also expressed gratitude to Sheikh Sabah for his ongoing support in safeguarding the well-being of the Indian community in Kuwait.

"I connected with HH Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince of Kuwait, and extended my greetings for the forthcoming Eid festival. We exchanged insights on the changing landscape in West Asia and shared concerns regarding recent occurrences. I reaffirmed India's strong condemnation of attacks on Kuwait's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ensuring safe and unhindered navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains our top priority," PM Modi shared on X.

On Tuesday, PM Modi had a conversation with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to address the current situation in West Asia. He reiterated India's firm condemnation of all attacks on the UAE that have resulted in loss of life and damage to civilian infrastructure.

In his post on X, PM Modi stated, "I spoke with my brother HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and conveyed advance Eid greetings. We deliberated on the prevailing circumstances in West Asia. I reiterated India's strong condemnation of all attacks on the UAE that have caused the loss of innocent lives and destruction to civilian infrastructure."

"We concurred on the significance of ensuring secure and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Our collaboration will persist as we strive for the swift restoration of peace, security, and stability in the region," he added.