Iran dials Modi, asks India to use its capacity to end Gaza conflict

In a sign of a potential Indian role in ending the Gaza conflict, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use India’s capacities to end the Israel-Hamas war. “Today, India is expected to use all its capacities to end the Zionist crimes against the oppressed people of Gaza,” said a readout of the telephonic conversation between the Iranian leader and PM Modi on November 6. In his conversation, Mr Raisi recalled India’s struggles against Western colonialism and the country’s position as one of the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement in the world The two leaders also discussed the progress on the Chabahar port which received a major boost in August when both sides decided to avoid commercial foreign arbitration for disputes between users and operators Iran has considerable leverage in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict as Tehran controls Hezbollah, a militant group whose entry in the conflict can further exacerbate the situation. In his remarks, President Raisi called for an “immediate ceasefire” and argued that the situation in Gaza will have “extra-regional consequences”. “Good exchange of perspectives with President Raisi of Iran on the difficult situation in West Asia and the Israel-Hamas conflict. Terrorist incidents, violence and loss of civilian lives are serious concerns. Preventing escalation, ensuring continued humanitarian aid and early restoration of peace and stability are important. Welcomed the progress in our bilateral cooperation, including on the Chabahar port,” said Prime Minister Modi in a message. PM Modi has been in contact with regional leaders since the conflict broke out on October 7.