India can help ease Middle East tensions: Iran envoy as Trump pushes talks

Fathali noted that India’s balanced foreign policy and strong ties with all parties involved in the US-Israel-Iran conflict position it as a credible mediator.

“India can certainly play an effective and positive role in reducing tensions. As a major actor in the Global South, India holds a special position to help de-escalate tensions and facilitate dialogue,” he told NDTV.

He added that India’s historical and strategic relations with all sides enable it to act as a trusted player in reducing misunderstandings and strengthening diplomatic channels.

His remarks come after US President Donald Trump spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday regarding the Iran conflict, which has heightened global concerns over fuel supply disruptions.

In a post on X, Modi said: “Received a call from President Trump and had a useful exchange of views on the situation in West Asia. India supports de-escalation and restoration of peace at the earliest. Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and accessible is essential for the whole world. We agreed to stay in touch regarding efforts towards peace and stability.”

Trump is reportedly pursuing a renewed diplomatic engagement with Iran to ease tensions in the region. In a significant move, he ordered a temporary halt to planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, directing the Department of Defense to postpone military action for five days and describing the talks as “constructive.”

He indicated that the pause would depend on progress in ongoing negotiations, signalling a cautious shift towards diplomacy.

However, Iran remains sceptical of the move and has relaunched attacks on Israel and parts of the Gulf region, including an assault that triggered a fire at Kuwait International Airport.

Meanwhile, Trump said US officials are in contact with Iran for negotiations, though he did not disclose further details.