Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 24: India on Tuesday welcomed reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel following 12 days of intense hostilities and reiterated its concern over the long-term security and stability of the West Asia region.
Responding to the breakthrough in talks, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement appreciating the diplomatic role played by the United States and Qatar in brokering the truce. “While we remain deeply concerned about the prospects for overall and sustained regional security and stability, we welcome reports of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and the role played by the US and Qatar in bringing it about,” the ministry said.
The ceasefire comes after Iranian state-run media confirmed the truce had begun, followed by a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledging the agreement announced by US President Donald Trump. Before the truce deadline, Iran had launched six waves of missile attacks on Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes, including the destruction of a radar installation near Tehran by Israel.
India, maintaining its balanced diplomatic posture, underscored the importance of peaceful negotiation. “We wish to reiterate that there is no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy in order to address and resolve the multiple conflicts in the region. India stands ready to play its part in these efforts,” the ministry added.
India, which maintains strategic partnerships with both Iran and Israel, had called for immediate de-escalation following Israel’s initial military strikes on June 13. The government remained particularly concerned due to the region’s role as a major energy supplier and its significance to the Indian diaspora, with over nine million Indians residing in West Asia.
Amid escalating tensions, India launched evacuation operations and has so far safely brought back around 3,200 Indian nationals from Iran and Israel. Approximately 10,000 Indians, including many students, reside in Iran, while over 32,000 are based in Israel.
India had notably distanced itself from a recent statement by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that condemned Israel’s actions against Iran.
On Sunday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the crisis. During the conversation, PM Modi expressed deep concern and once again called for calm and the resumption of diplomatic dialogue to restore peace in the region.