PM Modi Calls for Calm as US Strikes Iran's Nuclear Facilities, Global Tensions Soar

In a dramatic escalation of geopolitical tensions, the United States has launched targeted airstrikes on Iran’s key nuclear facilities, drawing worldwide concern and triggering a flurry of diplomatic responses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India has emerged as one of the first global leaders to urge restraint and advocate for dialogue, following a crucial phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (File Photo) | LiveMint

A Diplomatic Call Amid Explosive Developments

Prime Minister Modi’s call to President Pezeshkian came hours after American B‑2 stealth bombers and Tomahawk missiles struck Iran’s nuclear enrichment sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The attack, which U.S. officials claim was a strategic move to halt Iran's nuclear ambitions, marked a turning point in already fragile West Asian dynamics.

Modi, reiterating India’s long-standing commitment to regional peace, expressed deep concern over the rising hostilities. He urged both parties to step back from the brink of conflict and emphasized that diplomacy and dialogue are the only viable paths to restoring security and stability in the region. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister noted, “Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. Reiterated our call for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy.”

The US Offensive: A Show of Force

The American military operation, reportedly code-named Operation Midnight Hammer, involved the use of Massive Ordnance Penetrators aimed at Iran's deeply buried nuclear infrastructure. While President Trump declared the strikes a “spectacular success,” international observers have voiced fears of long-term repercussions.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that no radiation leaks occurred as a result of the bombardment, but the damage to Iran’s nuclear program could be significant. The Pentagon has maintained that more targets remain “on the table” should Iran retaliate or refuse to return to the negotiating table.

Iran’s Outrage and Retaliatory Threats

Tehran, for its part, has condemned the strikes as an unprovoked act of aggression and a violation of international law. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi labeled the offensive as “outrageous” and warned of grave consequences. In a swift reaction, Iran launched missile attacks on Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa and issued warnings that it might shut down the Strait of Hormuz, through which a third of the world’s oil supply transits.

The immediate fallout includes a regional security alert, with fears that the U.S.–Iran standoff may spiral into a wider military conflict involving Israel and other Gulf states.

India’s Strategic Balancing Act

India’s diplomatic outreach reflects a carefully calibrated stance. While New Delhi has deepening ties with Washington and Tel Aviv, it also maintains strong economic and cultural relations with Tehran. Notably, India has invested heavily in Iran’s Chabahar Port, a vital link for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Given these complex relationships, India’s call for calm is not just a moral appeal but a strategic necessity. The volatility in the Gulf poses risks to energy supplies, Indian workers in the region, and overall economic stability. Government officials confirmed that India is closely monitoring the situation and remains in touch with stakeholders on all sides.

Operation Sindhu: A Humanitarian Response

Even before the strikes, India had initiated Operation Sindhu, a mission to evacuate its nationals from Iran in light of rising tensions. Over 110 Indians, primarily students, were flown back from Armenia to New Delhi, and efforts are ongoing to bring more citizens home safely. This proactive move underscores India’s commitment to the safety of its diaspora and its capacity to respond swiftly in crisis situations.

Global Reactions: A Divided World

The U.S. strikes have drawn mixed reactions globally. While U.S. allies like the United Kingdom have endorsed the operation, citing the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program, other countries have adopted a more cautious tone. Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Switzerland have all called for de-escalation, while the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned that continued military actions could destabilize the entire Middle East.

Russia has condemned the airstrikes as reckless, accusing Washington of undermining diplomacy and igniting a new war front. China has called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting, reflecting the growing unease among global powers.

Conclusion: The Urgency of Dialogue

Prime Minister Modi’s timely intervention highlights India’s growing diplomatic influence and its role as a stabilizing force in international affairs. In the face of an increasingly volatile situation, New Delhi’s insistence on dialogue and peaceful negotiation stands out amid a global landscape marred by brinkmanship.

As the world watches closely, the need for cool heads and diplomatic engagement has never been more critical. Whether the situation de-escalates or spirals further into conflict may well depend on whether global leaders can set aside rivalry in favor of reason.

(Sources: LiveMint, NDTV, India Today)