India steps up diplomatic outreach as Iran-US conflict intensifies
March 3, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held telephonic conversations with Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman and Kuwait Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, a day after speaking with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan. The outreach comes amid the escalating conflict between Iran and the United States, which has led to airspace closures and heightened concerns over oil supplies and energy security across the Gulf region.
During the discussions, Modi conveyed concern over the recent attacks in Gulf nations and emphasised the safety of the large Indian diaspora living there. The Ministry of External Affairs earlier expressed grave concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and the wider Gulf, reiterating that the well-being of nearly one crore Indian nationals in the Middle East remains a top priority for New Delhi.
On Monday, Modi had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, backing efforts to restore peace and stability. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged with counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, as well as Iran and Israel, as hostilities continue. With more than 700 reported deaths in Iran and ongoing strikes across the region, diplomatic efforts are intensifying to prevent further escalation.