Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which he called on Iran to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Modi said the discussion also covered recent developments in the Middle East.

In a statement, Modi welcomed progress in talks with the United States and expressed hope that continued diplomatic efforts would bring lasting peace to the region. He reiterated the importance of maintaining free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz for India and the wider world.

Experts cited in the report noted that India imports about 40 percent of its oil and nearly half of its gas through the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the strategic importance of the waterway for the country’s energy security.