Jaishankar, Israeli FM Discuss West Asia Tensions and Strait of Hormuz

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar on Tuesday, focusing on the evolving security situation in West Asia and concerns surrounding the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Jaishankar described the exchange as a discussion covering multiple aspects of the regional situation. Sa’ar, on his part, emphasised the importance of a firm stance by the United States in negotiations aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He highlighted that such a position is crucial not just regionally but for global security.

The Israeli minister also raised concerns over Iran’s actions affecting freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a form of “economic terrorism” that threatens global trade. He stressed the need for collective action to ensure safe passage for all nations, including India and Gulf countries.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, and handling nearly 20% of global oil shipments. Any disruption there has significant implications for energy markets and global economies.

The conversation comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, especially after recent negotiations between the United States and Iranian officials failed to yield an agreement.

In recent days, Jaishankar has been actively engaging with regional and global counterparts. He also spoke with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, discussing the regional situation and the safety of the Indian community.

Earlier, during his visit to the United Arab Emirates, Jaishankar met President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi and conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He thanked the UAE leadership for ensuring the well-being of the Indian diaspora during the ongoing tensions.

He also interacted with Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and held discussions with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the broader implications of the conflict.

Jaishankar further engaged with members of the Indian community in the UAE, reassuring them of the government’s continued efforts to ensure their safety amid the volatile situation in West Asia.

With inputs from IANS