‘Condemn attack on critical infra’: PM speaks to Iran prez, says ‘shipping lanes must stay open’

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and condemned attacks on “critical infrastructure” amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.Sharing details of the conversation on X, PM Modi said, “Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.”“Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure,” he added.The Prime Minister also conveyed greetings on Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz amid the conflict. “We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia,” he said.He also appreciated Tehran’s support for Indians in the country, saying, “appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.”

Earlier in the day, United States and Israel carried out fresh strikes on Iran’s Natanz uranium-enrichment facility on Saturday, according to Iranian state-linked media. Tasnim news agency reported that the site was targeted in the joint attack, but there were no immediate signs of radioactive leakage and nearby residents were not at risk. Iran had earlier reported strikes on the same facility in previous rounds of US-Israeli operations, underlining its strategic importance.This marked the second telephonic conversation between the two leaders since the conflict escalated on February 28. Earlier, on March 12, Prime Minister had spoken to Pezeshkian and expressed “deep concern” over the rising tensions.“Had a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” he had posted on X.Amid mounting fears of an energy crisis, India has intensified its engagement with Iran, stressing the importance of ensuring uninterrupted movement of goods and energy supplies.Alongside the safety of the Indian diaspora, New Delhi’s primary concern remains the disruption to LPG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which has effectively been blockaded by Iran.The government has signaled that it is prioritising dialogue and diplomatic channels with Tehran, rather than joining any US-led military initiative to secure the waterway. At the peak of the crisis, as many as 28 Indian-flagged vessels were stranded in the Persian Gulf due to the blockade, although three have recently managed to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, while two more LPG carriers are now preparing to make their passage.