Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to discuss the current regional situation.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Expressing India’s concern over the recent developments, he stressed the safety of civilians as a priority. India reiterates the need for an early end to hostilities.”
Ali Khamenei was killed in a large-scale attack on Iran launched by Israel and the United States early Saturday morning, according to Iranian state television and the Islamic Republic’s official news agency. The death of the 86-year-old leader was confirmed early Sunday morning.
Israel carried out a new round of airstrikes on Tehran on Sunday, prompting Iran to fire more rockets in retaliation, Reuters reported.
The exchange of attacks between the United States, Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves across key sectors – from shipping and aviation to oil – raising fears of higher energy prices and trade disruptions in the Persian Gulf, a vital maritime corridor and global trade hub, Reuters reported.
Earlier, late on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Modi held a conversation with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during which he strongly condemned the attacks on the Gulf nation and reaffirmed India’s strong support for the UAE during this challenging time.
Modi also expressed gratitude to the UAE leader for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community there and reiterated New Delhi’s support for de-escalation efforts as well as regional peace, security and stability.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said the development offered the Iranians their “biggest chance” to “take back their country”, adding that an intense and precision bombing campaign would continue for a week or as long as needed.
Trump said the strikes were aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, curtailing its missile program and neutralizing threats to the United States and its allies.
In retaliation, Iran launched drones and missiles targeting Israel, US military bases in the Persian Gulf region and the international trade center of Dubai.
On Sunday, members of the Shia community protested in several parts of India, expressing anger and grief over Khamenei’s killing.
(With input from agencies)
