Modi, Trump discuss West Asia crisis, stress need to keep Strait of Hormuz open
New Delhi, March 24. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation on March 24 to review the escalating situation in West Asia, with a particular focus on ensuring the continued operation of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
According to US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, the two leaders exchanged views on developments in the region and underlined the importance of keeping critical maritime routes open amid rising tensions.
The high-level contact comes against the backdrop of a rapidly intensifying conflict that began on February 28, when joint strikes by the US and Israel targeted Iran, resulting in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran responded with a wave of drone and missile attacks on US and Israeli assets, as well as allied positions across the region, further destabilising West Asia.
The unfolding crisis has heightened volatility in global markets, particularly impacting energy prices, which remain sensitive to disruptions in the region.
Modi and Trump’s conversation also reflects their longstanding diplomatic engagement, marked by frequent interactions and public displays of mutual appreciation. Both leaders have consistently emphasised deeper cooperation in trade, defence and broader strategic ties between India and the US.
Last November, Trump had indicated plans to visit India in 2026, with the proposed trip likely to coincide with a summit of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which includes India, the US, Japan and Australia, and has emerged as a key forum for Indo-Pacific coordination.
Separately, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a detailed telephonic discussion on March 23, focusing on the implications of the West Asia conflict for the global economy and energy security.
In a post on X, Jaishankar said both sides reviewed the situation and agreed to remain in close contact. A US State Department readout confirmed that the two leaders discussed regional developments and reaffirmed their commitment to working together on shared priorities.
