The recent escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran has prompted a flurry of diplomatic activity, with global leaders urging de-escalation and a return to dialogue. The situation intensified after the United States launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities – Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan – marking a significant entry into the ongoing tensions.
Following the US strikes, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to convey his deep concern regarding the escalating situation. Modi reiterated India's consistent call for immediate de-escalation, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy as the path forward to restore regional peace, security, and stability. Modi communicated this message via social media, stating that he and the Iranian President discussed the current situation in detail. The call between the two leaders reportedly lasted 45 minutes, initiated by President Pezeshkian. During the conversation, Pezeshkian described India as a friend and partner in promoting regional peace and stability, expressing gratitude for India's stance and echoing the call for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions.
The US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have triggered widespread international reactions. While some nations have expressed support for the strikes, citing concerns about Iran's nuclear program, many others have cautioned against further escalation and emphasized the need for diplomacy. The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) condemned the strikes as "senseless and reckless," asserting that military action is not the appropriate means to address concerns regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions. Qatar voiced fears of "catastrophic consequences" at both regional and international levels, urging all parties to exercise restraint. Australia acknowledged that Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program posed a threat to international peace and security, but also called for de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy.
In response to the US strikes, Iran has strongly condemned the attacks, vowing to continue its nuclear program. Iranian officials have characterized the US action as a "criminal act of aggression" and a violation of international law. While details regarding the extent of the damage to the nuclear facilities remain unclear, Iran insists that its nuclear know-how "cannot be destroyed". Some reports suggest that Iran may consider ending its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and withdrawing from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.
The recent developments have heightened fears of a wider regional conflict and potential disruptions to global energy markets. India, with its deep strategic and economic ties to Iran, has significant stakes in the region's stability. Any further escalation could impact India's crude imports and potentially disrupt maritime connectivity. India has already been actively working to ensure the safety of its citizens in Iran, with ongoing efforts to evacuate Indian nationals. The situation remains highly volatile, and the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the region can de-escalate tensions and find a path towards peaceful resolution.
