NEW DELHI: Amid rapidly escalating hostilities in West Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed India’s deep concerns during a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging the early restoration of peace and stability in the region.
“Received a phone call from PM @netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation,” Modi said in a post on X. “I shared India’s concerns and emphasised the need for early restoration of peace and stability.”
The conversation came hours after Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a major military offensive targeting key sites in Iran, including nuclear facilities in Natanz. The strikes reportedly killed top Iranian commanders, including Revolutionary Guard chief Gen. Hossein Salami and military chief Gen. Mohammad Bagheri.
In response, Iran condemned the attacks, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowing “severe punishment,” intensifying fears of a broader regional conflict.
India, maintaining its traditionally balanced stance, issued a statement with External Affairs Ministry expressing “deep concern” and urging both sides to show restraint and return to diplomacy.
“We are closely monitoring the evolving situation, including reports related to attacks on nuclear sites,” the MEA said. “India urges both sides to avoid any escalatory steps. Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues.”
New Delhi also reaffirmed its strong bilateral ties with both nations and expressed readiness to assist in peace efforts. “India enjoys close and friendly relations with both the countries and stands ready to extend all possible support,” the statement added.
Indian embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv are in close touch with the Indian diaspora and are actively monitoring the situation to ensure their safety.
India also issued urgent travel advisories for its citizens in Iran and Israel on Friday after Israeli strikes on Iran sharply escalated regional tensions, while Air India diverted over 15 international flights following the closure of Iranian airspace.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran advised all Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin in Iran to exercise extreme caution.
“In view of the current situation in Iran, all Indian nationals & persons of Indian origin in Iran are requested to remain vigilant, avoid all unnecessary movements, follow the Embassy's social media accounts & observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities,” the embassy posted on X.
Simultaneously, the Indian Embassy in Israel also issued a similar alert for Indian nationals, amid fears of further escalation in the region.
“In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols as advised by the Israeli authorities and Home Front Command,” it said.