Addressing the nation in his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, March 29, struck a note of caution and resilience
amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, calling it a “challenging time” while urging citizens to remain calm and vigilant. PM Modi said that any situation arising from the war would be collectively dealt with by India’s 140 crore people, emphasising unity and preparedness. He also appealed to citizens not to fall prey to rumours or misinformation. "Situation emerging due to West Asia war will be dealt jointly by 140 crore people of the country. This is undoubtedly a challenging time. I appeal to all fellow citizens to stay vigilant and not fall prey to rumours," said PM Modi. Check Iran War Live Updates Here The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Gulf nations for extending support to the large Indian diaspora, noting that nearly one crore Indians living and working in the region have been provided assistance. "Currently, a fierce war has been going on for the past one month in our neighbourhood. Relatives of lakhs of families reside in these countries, particularly working in the Gulf regions. I am very grateful to the Gulf countries for providing every kind of assistance to over 1 crore Indians there. The region where the war is underway is a major hub of our energy needs. Due to this, a petrol and diesel crisis is developing worldwide." "India is resolutely facing these challenges because of its global relations, assistance from different countries, and the capability the country has built over the past decade. This is undoubtedly a challenging time. Today, through 'Mann Ki Baat', I once again urge countrymen to get united and overcome this challenge." The West Asia crisis began on February 28 after the US and Israel carried joint strikes on Iran, under 'Operation Epic Fury' and 'Operation Roaring Lion', killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with attacks on US and non-US targets across the Gulf region. US President Donald Trump's administration offered a 15-point plan for a possible ceasefire to Iran. Initially, Iran had denied that negotiations are taking place, however, intermediaries confirmed relaying messages between Washington and Tehran. As the two countries negotiate a probable ceasefire, the Iranian chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz has sent fuel prices skyrocketing and roiled the world economy. Tehran on Friday, however, said it agreed to facilitate humanitarian aid and agricultural shipments through the crucial waterway.
