Elon Musk Participated in Tuesday’s call between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President Donald TrumpAccording to the New York Times, it was an unusual example of a private citizen participating in discussions between the two heads of state during the ongoing geopolitical crisis.U.S. officials confirmed Musk’s joining, which comes months after reports emerged of differences between Musk and Trump after he quit the government. Recent developments indicate an improvement in relations between the two countries.The conversation focused on the evolving situation in West Asia, with both leaders stressing the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, safe and accessible. This vital maritime corridor handles a large portion of global oil shipments and remains critical to international energy markets.However, it is unclear why Musk was involved in the call or whether he spoke. His company has investments linked to Middle East sovereign wealth funds, and he has been pursuing greater business opportunities in India.US Ambassador to India Sergio Gore said the two leaders discussed regional tensions and the strategic need to ensure uninterrupted cross-strait traffic.Posting on X, Prime Minister Modi said India supports de-escalation and early restoration of peace, adding that both sides agreed to stay in touch on stabilization efforts. He also stressed that safe passage through the straits is crucial to global economic well-being, according to reports in India.A day earlier, Trump announced a five-day pause in potential U.S. strikes against Iranian facilities, raising hopes of a de-escalation in hostilities. Meanwhile, there are reports that Washington may send Vice President Vance to Pakistan to hold talks with Iranian officials.Separately, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the conflict and its impact on global markets and India’s energy security with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. India is also in touch with Iran to facilitate the movement of Indian vessels, some of which are still near the strait, although passage has recently been allowed for other vessels.Jaishankar also met Iranian Ambassador to India Mohammad Fatali, conveying India’s concerns and thanking Tehran for its support to Indian nationals. India has yet to formally respond to Trump’s postponement of military action against Iranian energy facilities, with the MEA saying only that the government is closely monitoring developments related to the conflict. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Tuesday that both Modi and Jaishankar stressed in their contacts that peace can be restored only through dialogue and diplomacy. Like many of America’s European allies, India has shown little interest in joining a U.S.-led naval coalition to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
