What Did India's EAM Discuss with Israel's Foreign Minister? Insights on West Asia and Strait of Hormuz
Key Discussions Between India and Israel
Tel Aviv/New Delhi: India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in a phone call with his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa'ar, on Tuesday, where they addressed the situation in West Asia and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Jaishankar shared on social media that their conversation encompassed various facets of the ongoing issues in West Asia.
Sa'ar emphasized the significance of the United States' position in negotiations aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities, which he believes is crucial for global security.
He remarked, "I had a productive discussion with my friend, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. We touched upon Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and Lebanon. I stressed that a strong American approach in negotiations to halt Iran's nuclear ambitions is vital for the international community, particularly regarding no enrichment and the removal of enriched materials from Iran."
Sa'ar also pointed out that Iran's actions threaten maritime navigation and the global economy, necessitating measures to safeguard freedom of navigation for all nations, including India and its Gulf allies.
The Strait of Hormuz is a pivotal maritime route, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, and is responsible for nearly 20% of the world's oil shipments.
These discussions come amid heightened tensions in the region following unsuccessful negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials.
In recent weeks, Jaishankar has been in contact with various foreign ministers, maintaining India's engagement with regional governments and key partners regarding the West Asia conflict.
He also spoke with Kuwait's Foreign Minister, Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, focusing on the regional dynamics and the welfare of the Indian diaspora.
Post-conversation, Jaishankar tweeted, "Had a fruitful discussion with FM Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah of Kuwait, centering on the regional situation and the welfare of the Indian community."
During a two-day official visit to the UAE from April 11-12, Jaishankar met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, extending Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings.
He expressed appreciation to the UAE President for his support of the Indian community during the ongoing West Asia conflict.
Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, was also present during this meeting.
Jaishankar expressed, "It was a privilege to meet President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi today. I conveyed warm regards from Prime Minister Modi and our gratitude for his efforts in ensuring the welfare of the Indian community during the West Asia conflict. I also thanked him for his guidance in strengthening the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."
In another update, he mentioned, "It was good to see HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during the call. I expressed our Government's appreciation for his support of the Indian community in Dubai."
On Saturday, he held discussions with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan regarding the evolving situation in West Asia and its broader implications.
Jaishankar also interacted with members of the Indian community, highlighting the Indian government's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia.