Narendra Modi on Monday held a telephonic conversation with Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the escalating situation in West Asia amid intensifying hostilities. In a post on X, Modi said he conveyed India’s concerns over the latest developments and stressed that the protection of civilian lives must remain a priority. “India reiterates the need for an early cessation of hostilities,” he said.
Late Sunday night, Modi also spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During the conversation, he strongly condemned the attacks on the United Arab Emirates and affirmed that India stands firmly with the Gulf nation in this challenging period. He expressed appreciation for the UAE leadership’s efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community residing there, and reiterated that New Delhi supports de-escalation and broader efforts toward regional peace, security and stability.
The exchange came in the backdrop of the killing of Ali Khamenei, who, according to Iranian state television and the Islamic Republic News Agency, died following large-scale strikes launched by Israel and the United States early Saturday. The 86-year-old leader’s death was confirmed early Sunday. Israel carried out another round of airstrikes on Tehran on Sunday, Reuters reported, triggering additional Iranian missile barrages in retaliation.
The continuing exchange of attacks between the United States, Israel and Iran has sent ripples across global markets. Shipping routes, commercial aviation corridors and oil supplies in the Gulf, a key maritime and energy hub, have all been affected, raising fears of prolonged disruptions and higher energy prices.
US President Donald Trump, commenting on the developments, said the strikes presented Iranians with their “greatest chance” to “reclaim their country.” He added that the bombing campaign would continue through the week or as long as necessary. Trump said the objective of the operation was to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, limit its missile capabilities and neutralise threats to the United States and its allies.
In response, Iran launched drones and missiles targeting Israel, US military installations in the Gulf region and the commercial hub of Dubai. Meanwhile, on Sunday, members of the Shia community staged protests in several parts of India, expressing anger and mourning over Khamenei’s killing.
