Amid rising tensions in West Asia after recent US-Israeli military strikes, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar spoke by phone Friday with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. According to a statement from Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the conversation focused on addressing the worsening regional security situation and enhancing bilateral ties.
Foreign Minister Araghchi briefed Dr Jaishankar on Tehran's position, denouncing the attacks on Iran's territorial integrity and the violations of international law, according to a statement from the Iranian ministry. In reference to the coordinated strikes by the US and the Zionist regime (Israel), Araghchi also urged the international community to hold those accountable for the aggression.
Dr. Jaishankar praised the recent ceasefire announcement during the discussion and said he hoped it would help reduce tensions in the area. He expressed gratitude for Tehran's cooperation in consular matters, particularly in times of crisis, and acknowledged Iran's continuous diplomatic efforts to keep lines of communication open.
The Indian foreign minister also thanked Iran for facilitating the evacuation of Indian nationals, noting Tehran’s support during Operation Sindhu. In a social media post following the call, Jaishankar said, “Spoke to FM @araghchi of Iran this afternoon. Appreciate his sharing Iran's perspective and thinking in the current complex situation.”
Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), gave an update at the weekly media briefing the day before the call. "India has successfully evacuated 3,426 Indian nationals from Iran and 818 Indians from Israel as part of Operation Sindhu," he said.
“We launched Operation Sindhu on the 18th of June. We have around 10,000 people from the Indian community in Iran, and around 40,000 Indian nationals in Israel,” Jaiswal added.
The coordinated bombings of Iran's nuclear program, which were carried out by Israel and the United States starting on June 13, provide a backdrop for this diplomatic engagement. According to reports, U.S. bunker-buster bombs were used in a significant attack on Iran's uranium enrichment facilities early on Sunday.
Thousands of people, including civilians, were injured in the ensuing exchange of missile barrages between Israel and Iran, which claimed hundreds of lives. According to reports, the strikes delayed Iran's nuclear development and seriously damaged Iranian infrastructure. Early Tuesday, US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel amid growing international concern, providing short-term respite to an already tense region.
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