On Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Modi stated that he had a phone call with US President Trump to discuss the Iran conflict, including the impact of this conflict on the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial channel for India’s energy imports. Currently, the passage is almost blocked due to the Iran conflict.
Modi posted on social media X on Tuesday, “I received a call from President Trump, and both sides exchanged valuable views on the situation in West Asia. India supports easing tensions and restoring peace as soon as possible.”
He added, “Ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open, safe, and accessible is crucial for the whole world. We agree to stay connected on efforts to promote peace and stability.”
US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, also posted on social media earlier on Tuesday, stating that Trump spoke with Modi and discussed the “importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.”
The Iran conflict has disrupted the transportation of crude oil and liquefied natural gas, driving up prices and causing fluctuations in the global market. India, as a major importer of liquefied natural gas and other petroleum fuels in the region, is facing severe impacts.
Modi stated in parliament on Monday that the conflict has disrupted various industries including aviation, shipping, and natural gas supply. However, he mentioned that India has enough reserves of oil, fertilizers, and coal to cope with potential disruptions. Additionally, India is working to ensure the safe passage of ships stranded in the region of the Strait of Hormuz.
It is reported that Iran has started charging transit fees to some commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
India stated on Tuesday that international law guarantees the right of ships to freely pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and no one should charge any fees for the use of this waterway. Previously, India has ensured the smooth passage of four ships carrying liquefied petroleum through the Strait of Hormuz.
With increasing global uncertainties, India and the US are strengthening strategic coordination. India has long pursued a cautious balancing strategy in global geopolitics.
US Deputy Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby is currently visiting India, emphasizing India’s growing global importance.
In his speech, he positioned India as an “indispensable” partner, noting the high level of common goals between the US and India – maintaining a “free, open, stable, balanced power structure in the Indo-Pacific region” and not allowing any single power to dominate the region.
Meanwhile, Indian Foreign Minister Sujeshen’s conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also highlighted urgent discussions on oil supply disruptions and global trade risks.