Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a phone conversation with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, during which he conveyed India’s deep concerns over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. The call was initiated by Netanyahu, who also briefed PM Modi on the latest developments in the unfolding crisis.
In a statement posted on social media, PM Modi said, "I shared India's concerns and emphasised the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region."
The conversation came shortly after Israel launched significant strikes on Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities, ballistic missile sites, and military leadership. According to Israeli reports, the operation aimed to dismantle Tehran’s capabilities to develop a nuclear weapon. Israel has named the offensive "Operation Rising Lion", with Prime Minister Netanyahu calling it a decisive moment in Israeli history. He said Israeli forces had hit the “heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme.”
Iranian media outlet Nournews reported that 78 people were killed in Tehran as a result of the Israeli strikes, which targeted multiple key sites, including Iran's primary nuclear enrichment facility and missile installations. The assault is being described as the most serious attack on Iran since the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s.
Also Read: Israel strikes Iran's capital, raising fears of full-scale war
India’s Ministry of External Affairs had earlier expressed grave concern over the developments, stating that the government is “closely monitoring” the situation and urged both nations to avoid any steps that could further escalate tensions.
The call between Modi and Netanyahu comes amid Israel’s broader diplomatic outreach. In recent days, Netanyahu has spoken to several world leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, in an attempt to rally international support.
Although Netanyahu has not yet spoken to US President Donald Trump, the American leader has already issued a strong warning to Iran. He urged Tehran to negotiate a deal, emphasising that the US possesses the most lethal weapons in the world—many of which, he noted, are in Israel’s possession. India’s outreach during the ongoing crisis reflects its concern for regional stability and the safety of its large diaspora in the Middle East.
Also Read: Israeli military says Iran launched over 100 drones in few hours
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