Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa on March 20, discussing the ongoing conflict in West Asia and condemning attacks on energy and civilian infrastructure in the region.
During the call, PM Modi conveyed Eid al-Fitr greetings to the King and the people of Bahrain. He also thanked the Bahraini leadership for its continued support towards the welfare of the Indian community residing in the country.
In a statement shared on X, the Prime Minister said the two leaders held a “fruitful discussion” on the evolving regional situation. He condemned attacks on energy and civilian infrastructure, noting their adverse impact on global food, fuel and fertiliser security.
PM Modi also underlined the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and maintaining secure shipping routes amid rising tensions in the region. The conversation comes against the backdrop of an escalating conflict in West Asia following the February 28 strikes involving the United States and Israel targeting Iran, which led to the killing of senior Iranian leadership, including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In response, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks on US and Israeli-linked targets across the region. The Prime Minister and the Bahrain King had last spoken on March 2.
In recent days, Prime Minister Modi has intensified diplomatic engagement with global leaders, including those of Malaysia, Oman, France, Kuwait, the UAE, Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, amid growing concerns over regional stability. On March 19, PM Modi also spoke with King Abdullah II, expressing concern over the situation and stressing the need for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability.
