**Title: Modi Emphasizes Free Navigation in Hormuz During Call with Iranian President**
In a recent conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the critical importance of maintaining freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This discussion comes at a pivotal moment following an initial ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States, which has set the stage for broader negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.
During the call, Modi expressed his support for the progress made in the ongoing peace talks and underscored the necessity for continued diplomatic efforts to foster stability in the region. He reiterated India's consistent stance that all disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, a position that aligns with New Delhi's broader foreign policy objectives.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage, is crucial for global trade, particularly for energy shipments. The recent tensions in the region have raised concerns about the security of this chokepoint, through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil passes. The conflict escalated significantly following US-Israeli military actions against Iran in late February, which prompted Iran to close the strait. In response, the US imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports, disrupting shipping traffic and causing global oil prices to surge, reaching as high as $120 per barrel.
The conversation between Modi and Pezeshkian also touched upon the implications of the ongoing US-Iran negotiations, which are complicated by disputes over control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has indicated that it may seek to impose tolls on shipping traffic as part of a broader peace framework that would be established after a 60-day negotiation period. However, the US has firmly opposed any such charges, asserting that navigation in the strait should remain free of tolls.
In light of these developments, India has taken steps to diversify its energy imports, particularly in response to the disruptions caused by the conflict. Notably, New Delhi's oil imports from Russia reached record levels in June, reflecting India's efforts to secure stable energy supplies amid rising geopolitical tensions.
President Pezeshkian provided Modi with updates on the situation in the Middle East and the potential pathways for peace as discussions continue. Additionally, Pezeshkian extended an invitation to Modi to attend the state funeral of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, scheduled for early July. However, India will be represented at the ceremonies by state governor Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita.
As the situation in the region evolves, the emphasis on dialogue and diplomatic solutions remains a priority for both India and Iran, with the hope that these efforts will lead to a more stable and peaceful Middle East.