New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with the Iranian Ambassador in New Delhi on Tuesday, centering around the current turmoil in West Asia.

"I met with Dr. Mohammad Fathali, Iran's Ambassador to India, this afternoon to discuss the escalating conflict in West Asia. I value the assistance extended to Indian nationals in Iran during these trying times," EAM Jaishankar posted on X following their meeting.

Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressing regional developments and the potential for bilateral collaboration.

During this conversation, PM Modi expressed his heartfelt greetings to President Pezeshkian in light of the festive occasions of Eid and Nowruz. Both leaders shared the aspiration that these celebrations would mark the beginning of a new era of peace, stability, and prosperity for the West Asian region.

In the call, PM Modi condemned the recent assaults on vital infrastructure in the area, emphasizing that such actions jeopardize regional stability and disrupt crucial global supply chains. He reiterated the importance of protecting the freedom of navigation and ensuring the security of international shipping routes. PM Modi also expressed gratitude for Iran's ongoing support in safeguarding the welfare of Indian citizens residing there.

"I spoke with President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed Eid and Nowruz wishes. We collectively hope that this festive season brings peace, stability, and prosperity to West Asia. I condemned the attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which endanger stability and disrupt global trade. I reaffirmed the need to protect freedom of navigation and ensure the safety of shipping lanes. I appreciate Iran’s consistent support for Indian nationals in Iran," PM Modi shared on X after his conversation with the Iranian President.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha, outlining the government's stance on the situation stemming from the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He noted that the war, which has continued for over three weeks, has triggered a significant global energy crisis with troubling repercussions for India, disrupting trade routes and affecting the steady supply of essential goods such as petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilizers.

Detailing India's proactive diplomatic efforts since the onset of hostilities, he revealed that he personally engaged in two rounds of telephone discussions with leaders from various West Asian nations. Modi emphasized that India remains in constant communication with all Gulf states, alongside Iran, Israel, and the United States, aiming to restore peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. Discussions regarding de-escalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have been specifically prioritized.

Highlighting India's unwavering position, PM Modi asserted that attacks on commercial vessels and the obstruction of international waterways, such as the Strait of Hormuz, are intolerable. He firmly denounced all attacks on civilians, civil infrastructure, and energy-related facilities.

"Any threat to human life in this conflict is against the very essence of humanity, and thus, India’s ongoing efforts are directed towards encouraging all parties to achieve a peaceful resolution as soon as possible," PM Modi remarked on Tuesday.