Sat Jun 14 03:19:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in urgent phone calls with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts. This follows a military exchange that saw Israel targeting Iranian nuclear research centers, prompting a retaliatory missile and drone barrage from Iran. Prime Minister Modi also spoke with Israeli PM Netanyahu, urging de-escalation. India, with significant strategic and economic interests in the region, is deeply concerned about the escalating conflict and is pushing for a diplomatic resolution. The conflict is already impacting India, with Air India flights being diverted due to airspace closures. The situation is particularly sensitive as Israel hosts 30,000 Indian nationals, and Iran hosts 10 million Indian expats.
**News Article:**
**India Urges Restraint as Israel-Iran Conflict Intensifies, Disrupts Air Travel**
**New Delhi, June 14, 2025:** India is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, which saw a sharp escalation Friday with reported attacks on nuclear research centers in Iran and retaliatory missile strikes targeting Israel.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held separate phone conversations with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Abbas Araghchi, expressing “deep concern of the international community” regarding the situation. According to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Tehran, Jaishankar urged both sides to avoid further escalatory steps and return to diplomacy.
The diplomatic flurry comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a call from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Modi emphasized the importance of regional stability for India’s economy and security, calling for an “early restoration of peace.”
The situation is particularly fraught for India given its strategic partnerships with both Israel and Iran. Israel is home to approximately 30,000 Indian nationals, while Iran hosts around 10 million Indian expat workers. Furthermore, the region is critical for India’s energy security and its aviation links to the West.
The conflict has already begun to impact India. As *The Hindu* reported earlier today, at least 16 Air India long-haul flights were diverted after Iran closed its airspace following the Israeli strikes, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion” by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv has also been shut down following Iranian missile strikes.
India’s active involvement underscores its commitment to regional stability and its desire to protect its significant interests in the Middle East. Analysts say India is walking a tightrope, striving to maintain relationships with both countries while advocating for peace and de-escalation. The situation remains fluid and is being closely monitored by officials in New Delhi.
First Piper 