Kamal Ghorui
Elon Musk participated in a phone call on Tuesday between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, an unusual instance of a private citizen joining a discussion between two heads of state during an ongoing geopolitical crisis, reported New York Times.The inclusion of Musk, confirmed by US officials, comes months after a reported fallout between him and Trump following his exit from a government role. Recent developments suggest ties between the two have improved.The conversation focused on the evolving situation in West Asia, with both leaders emphasising the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, secure and accessible. The key maritime corridor handles a significant share of global oil shipments and remains critical to international energy markets.However, it remains unclear why Musk was included in the call or whether he spoke. His companies have investments linked to Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds, and he has been seeking greater commercial opportunities in India.US ambassador to India Sergio Gor said the leaders discussed regional tensions and the strategic need to ensure uninterrupted movement through the Strait.In a post on X, PM Modi said India supports de-escalation and early restoration of peace, adding that both sides agreed to remain in touch regarding efforts towards stability. According to the Indian readout, he also highlighted that safe passage through the Strait is vital for global economic well-being.The call came a day after Trump announced a five-day pause on potential US strikes on Iranian facilities, raising hopes of easing hostilities. It also coincided with reports that Washington may send Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for talks with Iranian officials.Separately, external affairs minister S Jaishankar discussed the conflict and its implications for global markets and India’s energy security with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. India has also remained in touch with Iran to facilitate the movement of Indian vessels, some of which remain near the Strait despite recent passage granted to others.Jaishankar also met Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, conveying India’s concerns and thanking Tehran for its support to Indian nationals. India has not officially responded to Trump’s delaying of military action on Iranian energy installations with the MEA only saying the government is closely monitoring developments related to the conflict. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Tuesday both Modi and Jaishankar are stressing in their engagements that peace can be restored only through dialogue and diplomacy. Like many of US’ European allies, India had shown little interest in joining a US-led naval coalition to keep Strait of Hormuz open.
