New Delhi, June 24, 2025 – India has expressed relief and cautious optimism following reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, announced on June 24, 2025, after nearly two weeks of intense conflict. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) welcomed the truce, facilitated by the United States and Qatar, but reiterated deep concerns about long-term stability in West Asia, a region critical to India’s energy and security interests.
A Step Toward Peace
The ceasefire, brokered after US President Donald Trump’s announcement, comes after a dangerous escalation involving Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks on US bases in Qatar. The 12-hour truce, effective from June 24, aims to halt hostilities that began on June 13, when Israel targeted Iran’s military and nuclear sites, prompting Iran to launch six waves of missile attacks. Both nations have accused each other of violating the truce, raising concerns about its durability.
India’s MEA stated, “We welcome reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and the role played by the US and Qatar in bringing it about.” However, it emphasized that “there is no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy” to resolve ongoing conflicts in the region, urging all parties to work toward sustained peace.
India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act
India’s response reflects its careful navigation of ties with both Iran and Israel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a 45-minute call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on June 22, expressed “deep concern” over the escalation and called for de-escalation through dialogue. Similarly, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts, urging restraint and diplomacy. India’s neutral stance was evident when it distanced itself from a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) statement condemning Israel’s actions, prioritizing its strategic autonomy.
India shares strong ties with Israel, a key defense partner supplying advanced weaponry like the Barak-8 missile system, and with Iran, a vital source of crude oil and a partner in the Chabahar port project, which connects India to Afghanistan and Central Asia. The conflict’s escalation threatened India’s energy security, with oil prices fluctuating and flight routes disrupted due to airspace closures.
Evacuation Efforts and Regional Concerns
Amid the hostilities, India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate hundreds of its citizens, including 285 students from Iran’s Mashhad, who landed safely in Delhi on June 22. The Indian embassy in Tehran has since wound down its evacuation desk but continues to monitor the situation closely.
The conflict’s ripple effects, including potential disruptions to global oil supplies and increased migration risks, have alarmed India. With millions of Indian workers in the Gulf and reliance on West Asian oil, any prolonged instability could impact fuel prices, airfares, and India’s economy.
A man holds an Iranian flag by an Iranian Red Crescent ambulance that was destroyed during an Israeli strike, displayed in Tehran on June 23,2025. Israel struck Tehran and Iran fired missiles on June 23, as the war between the longtime foes raged for its 11th day after the United States sent bombers to attack the Islamic republic’s nuclear sites. (Photo by ATTA KENARE / AFP)
A Call for Diplomacy
India has offered to play a mediating role, with the MEA stating, “India stands ready to play its part in these efforts and hopes that all concerned parties will work towards sustained peace and stability.” This aligns with India’s longstanding policy of non-alignment and its growing diplomatic influence globally.
For Indians, this truce is a hopeful sign, but the region’s fragility remains a concern. As New Delhi continues to advocate for peace, it urges citizens to stay updated via official channels and follow local advisories in West Asia.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, June 24, 2025 11:19 pm by Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu | Published by: Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 11:19 pm | News Categories: News, Latest
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