India stresses de-escalation as China urges halt to fighting amid US-Israel strikes on Iran

India has maintained a cautious diplomatic stance amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia after coordinated United States and Israeli strikes on Iran, including the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

New Delhi has not publicly condemned the killing but has repeatedly called for an early cessation of hostilities, prioritising civilian safety and urging all sides to exercise restraint, officials and external affairs sources said.

In a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the need for hostilities in the region to end early and underscored the importance of protecting civilians amid surging violence.

In a post on X, Modi said he conveyed India’s concerns over recent developments and reiterated that the safety of civilians must be a priority. India also condemned recent attacks on the United Arab Emirates, expressing solidarity and thanking Emirati leaders for looking after Indian citizens in the Gulf.

The Indian government’s position, which focuses on de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy, comes as world powers call for restraint and respect for international law.

China condemned the US-Israel strikes on Iran, deeming them “unacceptable” and urging an immediate halt to military operations and a return to negotiations.

China’s foreign ministry emphasised that disputes should be addressed through talks rather than force, reflecting growing global concern over the widening conflict.

New Delhi has also been in contact with other Gulf leaders to ensure the safety of Indian nationals, including in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, and regularly monitors evacuation and advisory needs as the situation evolves.

External Affairs Ministry officials have conveyed India’s concerns to counterparts in the region, highlighting the government’s approach of avoiding escalation while protecting citizens abroad.