India's Jaishankar says spoke with Iran's Araghchi

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on March 5, 2026, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following a reported U.S. attack on an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean. The IRIS Dena, which had recently participated in India’s Milan 2026 multinational naval exercise, was struck off Sri Lanka’s coast, resulting in at least 87 confirmed fatalities and numerous missing sailors. The Indian Navy coordinated search-and-rescue efforts with Sri Lanka, deploying vessels and helicopters to assist in the operation.

The attack occurred amid broader U.S.-Israel military actions against Iran, which Iranian authorities claim killed 926 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior officials. India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also extended condolences at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi, underscoring diplomatic engagement amid the crisis.

India has emphasized the need for de-escalation, citing risks to regional stability and global energy markets. The country, which imports 85% of its crude oil, faces heightened concerns over disruptions to supply chains and rising energy prices following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on QatarEnergy facilities. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the vulnerability of nearly 10 million Indian citizens in West Asia and the economic consequences of prolonged conflict.

Jaishankar reiterated India’s call for dialogue, aligning with its longstanding stance on peaceful conflict resolution. The conversation with Araghchi reflects efforts to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics while safeguarding economic and strategic interests.