‘Condemn attacks on critical infrastructure’: PM Modi talks to Iranian President, says ‘water lanes must remain open’

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian spoke to Iran on Saturday and condemned attacks on Tehran’s “critical infrastructure” amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.Share conversation details on X, Prime Minister Modi “Condemn attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains,” it said.He added: “Reiterating the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and ensuring waterways remain open and safe.”The Prime Minister also conveyed greetings eid al-fitr and Nowruz in conflict. “We express our hope that this festival will bring peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia,” he said.He also appreciated Tehran’s support for Indians in the country and expressed “appreciation for Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran”.Earlier in the day, the United States and Israel launched a new attack on Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility on Saturday, Iranian state media reported. The Tasnim news agency reported that the site was the target of a joint attack, but there were no immediate signs of a radioactive leak and nearby residents were not in danger. Iran earlier reported attacks on the same facility during previous rounds of US-Israeli operations, underscoring its strategic importance.This is the second phone call between the two leaders since the conflict escalated on February 28. Previously, on March 12, the Prime Minister had spoken to Pezeshkian and expressed “deep concern” about the escalation of tensions.“Had a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressing deep concern at the escalation of tensions, loss of civilian lives and damage to civilian infrastructure,” he posted on X.India has stepped up its engagement with Iran, stressing the importance of ensuring uninterrupted flow of goods and energy supplies amid growing concerns about an energy crisis.Apart from the safety of the Indian diaspora, New Delhi’s main concern remains disruption to LPG shipments in the Strait of Hormuz, which is effectively blocked by Iran.The administration has said it will prioritize dialogue and diplomatic channels with Tehran over joining any U.S.-led military initiative to secure the waterway. At the height of the crisis, as many as 28 Indian-flagged ships were stranded in the Persian Gulf due to the blockade, although three ships recently managed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz and two other LPG carriers are currently preparing to pass.