External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held his fourth phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi since the West Asia crisis escalated, as India intensified efforts to secure safe passage for 28 Indian-flagged merchant vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. The ministers spoke on Thursday night, following their earlier discussions on February 28, March 5, and March 10, which came soon after the US and Israel’s attack on Iran that resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Jaishankar confirmed the conversation on social media, noting that they discussed bilateral matters and BRICS-related issues. The call took place amid India’s efforts to ensure the safe navigation of its vessels through the strategic shipping route, partially blocked by Tehran in response to heightened tensions with the US and Israel.

An Iranian statement said Araghchi briefed Jaishankar on the consequences of what Iran described as “aggressions and crimes” by the US and Israel, highlighting their impact on regional and global stability. Araghchi emphasized Iran’s firm commitment to exercising its legitimate right to self-defense and stressed the need for international and regional forums to condemn military actions against the country.

He also underlined BRICS’ role in fostering multilateral cooperation and called for the forum to play a constructive role in supporting regional stability and security. Araghchi described the strengthening of a stable and sustainable security environment in the region as a collective necessity, urging collaboration to ensure peace and security in the face of escalating tensions.