India and France Discuss Middle East and Strait of Hormuz in Call

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron recently held a phone conversation focusing on regional security and the reopening of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This call, reported by the Hindustan Times, took place ahead of an upcoming France-UK meeting addressing the strategic waterway, which is vital for global oil shipments.

Modi underscored India’s commitment to working with France to promote peace and stability in the Middle East, as stated in a post on X reported by NDTV. This conversation forms part of broader diplomatic efforts by India to address tensions in West Asia, balancing relationships in the region and safeguarding crucial shipping lanes.

Alongside his discussion with Macron, Modi spoke with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, emphasizing the importance of freedom of navigation and urging the protection of critical infrastructure. The Hindu and Times of India report Modi's condemnation of recent attacks in West Asia and his call for open and secure shipping lanes, highlighting India’s concern for the safety of its nationals in Iran.

Modi also engaged in talks with U.S. President Donald Trump on March 24 to stress the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. According to Channel News Asia and The Star Malaysia, Trump and Modi addressed the regional conflict’s impact on global energy security, with U.S. envoy Sergio Gor confirming the discussion about reopening the critical chokepoint.

Looking ahead, the outcomes of the France-UK meeting on the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing diplomatic communications will be critical in shaping the region’s security environment. India's active engagement with key global powers signals its intent to contribute to stability and ensure uninterrupted maritime commerce in this geopolitically sensitive area.