Indian PM Modi speaks with Iran's President Pezeshkian

As the war continues, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian by phone.

Modi expressed "deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure" in the call with Pezeshkian. 

"The safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India's top priorities," the statement from Modi added. "Reiterated India's commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy."

India is heavily dependent on the Strait of Hormuz for its energy needs, and media reports from Reuters and other outlets suggest that Iran may allow Indian-flagged tankers to transit the strait.

Although India and Iran still have cordial dialogue, the relationship between the two countries is complicated.

Iran has previously criticized the Modi government's decision in 2019 to revoke Muslim-majority Kashmir's autonomy. India, meanwhiie, has close ties with Israel, with Modi praising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last month on a visit to Jerusalem just days before the US-Israeli operation began.