New Delhi, 02 March (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in urgent diplomatic outreach amid escalating US-Israel strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation across the Gulf. In separate calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Modi stressed civilian protection and de-escalation, reflecting India's balanced stance in the volatile crisis.

The conflict ignited on February 28, 2026, with joint US-Israeli operations—Operation Epic Fury by the US and Operation Roaring Lion by Israel—targeting Iranian leadership, nuclear sites, and military infrastructure in cities like Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, and Karaj.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated during a meeting with top aides, confirmed by US President Donald Trump, Israeli officials, and Iranian state media; he was killed alongside family members and IRGC commanders.

Strikes timed for Saturday morning exploited intelligence on Khamenei's location, devastating key facilities while Iran retaliated with missiles on UAE targets, including Dubai, and an oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz carrying 15 Indian crew members, injuring four.

PM Modi conveyed deep concerns to Netanyahu over recent developments, emphasizing civilian safety as the utmost priority and calling for an early cessation of hostilities.

In his conversation with UAE's Sheikh Mohamed, Modi strongly condemned Iranian attacks, expressed condolences for lives lost, affirmed India's solidarity, and thanked the UAE for safeguarding its Indian diaspora; he explicitly backed de-escalation for regional peace.

These calls follow India's Ministry of External Affairs statement expressing deep concern and urging restraint from all parties.

India navigates ties with the US, Israel, UAE, and Iran, with millions of expatriates in the Gulf at risk and energy routes like the Strait of Hormuz threatened.

PM Modi's interventions underscore India's push for dialogue amid fears of wider war, as Iranian strikes hit UAE infrastructure and US assets face reprisals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar