Iran lists conditions for ending war with US, Israel in call with PM Modi

Iran outlined a set of conditions to end its conflict with the United States and Israel and ensure long-term regional peace during a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 21.

According to the Iranian embassy in India, Pezeshkian underscored that a “prerequisite for ending the war and conflict in the region is the immediate cessation of aggressions by the US and Israel, along with guarantees against their recurrence in the future.”

The Iranian side said the two leaders discussed bilateral ties as well as global and regional developments “in light of the continued military aggressions by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran.”

During the call, Modi conveyed greetings on Eid and Nowruz and expressed concern over attacks on critical infrastructure in the region. He warned that such actions threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.

“Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains. Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure,” Modi said in a post on X, also appreciating Iran’s support for the safety of Indian nationals.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come amid concerns over the security of key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for India’s energy imports.

Regional security proposal

Pezeshkian also proposed the creation of a regional security framework comprising West Asian nations to maintain peace and stability without “foreign interference.” He expressed hope that BRICS, under India’s rotating presidency, would play an independent role in helping end hostilities and restoring stability.

The Iranian President rejected claims by US President Donald Trump that the conflict was aimed at preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He reiterated that Iran’s leadership, including the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has consistently opposed the development of nuclear weapons.

Pezeshkian also dismissed allegations by the US and Israel that portray Iran as a source of regional instability, instead accusing Israel of carrying out attacks and assassinations across countries including Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq and elsewhere. Pezeshkian also referred to the bombing of a school in Iran by the US that led to the tragic death of 168 schoolchildren.

He further described US and Israeli actions against Iran as “profoundly inhumane and unethical,” while expressing Tehran’s willingness to engage with global leaders to provide transparency and oversight of its peaceful nuclear programme.