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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump, during which both leaders discussed the evolving situation in West Asia and emphasised the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz "open and secure."

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "Received a call from my friend President Donald Trump. We reviewed the substantial progress achieved in our bilateral cooperation across various sectors and remain committed to further strengthening our Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership in all areas."

He added that both leaders also discussed regional tensions and underscored the need to ensure uninterrupted navigation and stability in the Strait of Hormuz.

India has consistently advocated de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing conflict in West Asia. New Delhi welcomed the recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would pave the way for lasting peace in the region.

The Indian government believes the conflict has caused significant human suffering and disrupted global energy supply chains and trade networks. It has also reiterated the importance of maintaining the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.

Meanwhile, maritime activity in the region continues amid rising tensions. A third Iran-linked tanker entered the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, marking the first full day of the US-imposed blockade on vessels calling at Iranian ports. The blockade was announced byPresident Trumpafter peace talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad failed to yield an agreement.

According to shipping data, the tankers currently passing through the strait are not bound for Iranian ports and are therefore not affected by the blockade. One such vessel, the Panama-flagged Peace Gulf, is heading toward Hamriyah Port in the United Arab Emirates.

Additional vessels have also transited the waterway. The sanctioned tanker Murlikishan is en route to Iraq to load fuel oil, while another tanker, Rich Starry, is expected to become one of the first vessels to exit the Gulf since the blockade began. Rich Starry, carrying approximately 250,000 barrels of methanol, had loaded its cargo at Hamriyah Port.

The vessel and its owner, Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd, are under US sanctions for dealings with Iran. The Chinese-owned tanker reportedly has a Chinese crew on board.

Reacting to the developments, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China described the US blockade as "dangerous and irresponsible," warning that it could further escalate tensions in the region.