Jaishankar Holds Talks with Iran, Qatar, UAE on West Asia Tensions

New Delhi, April 5: India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held telephone conversations on Sunday with his counterparts from Iran, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to address escalating tensions in West Asia, including the ongoing conflict and disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route.

Jaishankar's discussions came amid heightened regional instability, triggered by Iran's partial blockade of the strait, which carries about 20 percent of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The move has driven up global energy prices and raised alarms over potential long-term disruptions to commercial navigation. Iran has permitted passage for vessels from allied nations, including India, but broader access remains restricted.

In his first call, Jaishankar spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, marking their sixth conversation since the conflict began on February 28. "Received a call from Foreign Minister Araghchi of Iran. Discussed the present situation," Jaishankar posted on social media, without providing further details. The Iranian embassy in New Delhi confirmed the exchange, stating that the ministers covered bilateral...