PM Modi speaks to Saudi PM, condemns attacks on energy assets; Rajnath Singh reviews war impact on India's economy, strategic interests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation on Saturday with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the escalating conflict in West Asia, with a focus on safeguarding energy supplies and maritime security.

During the call, Modi reiterated India’s strong stance against attacks on critical energy infrastructure in the region and stressed the importance of keeping key shipping routes open.

 “Spoke with Crown Prince and PM of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed the ongoing conflict in West Asia. I reiterated India’s condemnation of attacks on regional energy infrastructure. We agreed on the need to ensure freedom of navigation and keeping shipping lines open and secure. Thanked him for his continued support for the welfare of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia,” Modi said in a post on X.

The development comes at a time when global energy markets remain on edge due to disruptions in supply chains and rising geopolitical risks in the oil-rich region.

Govt reviews domestic impact

Separately, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the first meeting of an Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM) set up to assess the evolving situation and its implications for India’s economy and strategic interests.

The meeting, attended by key ministers including Nirmala Sitharaman and Hardeep Singh Puri, reviewed sector-wise preparedness and response strategies.

Singh emphasised the need for a coordinated and forward-looking approach, calling for continuous monitoring and swift decision-making. He also underlined the importance of adopting a medium- to long-term preparedness strategy to manage any fallout from the conflict.

Focus on coordination and communication

The IGoM highlighted the need for close coordination between the Centre, states and district administrations to ensure timely implementation of policy measures. It also directed ministries to actively share verified updates to counter misinformation and maintain public awareness.

In a post on X after the meeting, Singh said the government remains committed to protecting citizens from any adverse impact of the crisis. “PM Modi-led Govt is committed to safeguarding Indian people from any impact,” he said.

Officials noted that the government is closely tracking developments across sectors such as energy, fertilisers, logistics and aviation, which could face pressure if the conflict intensifies.