PM Modi's key dialogue with Qatar, Oman, Jordan, France amid Iran-US war: ‘Attacks on energy condemnable’

PM Modi condemned the attacks targeting energy infrastructure in West Asia. He also called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace, security and stability.

Updated on: Mar 20, 2026, 11:05:44 IST

Edited by Aryan Mudgal

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with leaders of Qatar, France, Jordan, Oman and Malaysia, expressing concern over the situation in West Asia and urging steps to reduce tensions in the conflict. He also condemned the attacks targeting energy infrastructure in the region.

In separate phone calls with the five leaders, the prime minister called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace. (AFP)

In separate phone calls with the five leaders, the prime minister called for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace, security and stability at the earliest. He also discussed the need to ensure safe and free movement through the Strait of Hormuz. Follow Iran-US war live updates here.

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PM Modi speaks to Qatar, France, Jordan, Oman and Malaysia leaders

Qatar

During his conversation with the Amir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the prime minister said New Delhi stands by Doha and firmly condemned the attacks on the region's energy infrastructure.

"Expressed gratitude for the care and support provided to the Indian community and hoped for peace and stability to prevail in the region. We stand for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz," he said.

Follow Dubai news live updates here.

Jordan

Calling King Abdullah II of Jordan "my brother", Modi also conveyed advance Eid greetings to him.

"We expressed concern at the evolving situation in West Asia and highlighted the need for dialogue and diplomacy for the early restoration of peace, security and stability in the region. Attacks on energy infrastructure in West Asia are condemnable and can lead to avoidable escalation," he said.

The prime minister said India and Jordan support the smooth movement of goods and energy.

"Deeply appreciated Jordan's efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indians stranded in the region," he added.

France

In another post on X, Modi said he spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron.

"Spoke with my dear friend, President Emmanuel Macron, on the situation in West Asia and the urgent need for de-escalation, as well as a return to dialogue and diplomacy. We look forward to continuing our close coordination to advance peace and stability in the region and beyond," he said.

In response, Macron wrote: "Thank you, my dear friend. India and France are working closely together to reduce tensions in the region and to keep diplomacy at the heart of our efforts for peace."

Oman

Modi said he had a "productive conversation" with "my brother", Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman, and extended advance Eid greetings to the people of the Gulf nation.

"We agreed on the need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and subsequent restoration of peace and stability," he said.

The prime minister reiterated New Delhi's strong stance against any violation of Oman's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and praised Oman's role in helping thousands of people, including Indians, return safely.

Malaysia

During his call with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Modi conveyed greetings to him and the people of Malaysia ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

"We also discussed the deeply concerning situation in West Asia and reaffirmed our shared commitment to de-escalation and the early restoration of peace and stability through dialogue and diplomacy," he said.

ALSO READ | Stop attacks on West Asia energy infra: India

West Asia conflict

Iran stepped up attacks on oil and gas facilities across the Gulf on Thursday in retaliation to an Israeli strike on South Pars, the Iranian section of the world’s largest gas field, located offshore in the Persian Gulf and shared with Qatar.

Around 80% of Iran’s electricity comes from natural gas, according to the International Energy Agency.

US President Donald Trump warned that America would “massively blow up the entirety” of Iran’s gas field if it continues attacking its neighbours.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said later on Thursday that Iran can no longer enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles.

With inputs from agencies

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aryan Mudgal
Aryan Mudgal is a Content Producer at Hindustan Times with nearly three years of experience. He is part of the digital news team at HT and enjoys covering day-to-day news and writing long, detailed explainers on key national and global affairs. He takes particular interest in reading and writing about Indian politics, crime, civic issues, as well as global affairs. He goes berserk when covering elections, especially Lok Sabha and assembly polls, and always looks out for fresh stories that could intrigue readers. At Hindustan Times, Aryan has covered various major events, including the Bihar assembly elections, Maharashtra civic polls, the US' military action in Venezuela, Union Budget, and Bangladesh elections. He has previously worked with the explainers team at Firstpost and the news desk at Times Network, covering a range of events including the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Israel–Hamas war, Russia-Ukraine war, Bangladesh’s student protests and Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, Delhi assembly elections, and more. He completed his bachelor’s degree in CEP (Communications & Media, English, and Psychology) from Christ University, Bengaluru, and later pursued a postgraduate diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC). He hails from Siliguri in West Bengal and enjoys reading about politics and day-to-day issues concerning the state. Outside of work, Aryan loves listening to music and enjoys rewatching his favourite comfort shows.Read More

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