US-Iran Tensions Resurface: India flags concern over West Asia crisis, urges restraint

The central government on Wednesday expressed concern over the evolving situation in the Middle East after US President Donald Trump reportedly warned of a major strike against Iran mere hours after he claimed that the ceasefire established last month was "over". His remarks sent Wall Street tumbling and safe-haven assets like gold soaring as investors anticipated a prolonged period of geopolitical tensions.

The news comes less than a month after both sides signed an interim 14-point deal to explore discussions for a permanent truce in the conflict that has already battered global energy markets and forced economists to revisit their global growth estimates.

The Ministry of External Affairs said that attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz were concerning, adding that such incidents threaten world peace, security and stability.

The ministry urged both sides -- the US and Iran -- to exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions and called for ensuring the safety of civilians present in the region.

It also appealed for the uninterrupted continuation of global energy supplies and trade, reiterating India's position that a solution must be explored through dialogue and diplomacy.