PM Modi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed during talks in Abu Dhabi. Photo: X
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, May 15, said maintaining a “free, open and safe” Strait of Hormuz was India’s highest priority as he held talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
Speaking during delegation-level talks in Abu Dhabi, Modi said the impact of the ongoing conflict in West Asia was being felt globally and stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remained the best path to resolving crises.
“Maintaining a free, open and safe Strait of Hormuz is our highest priority. In this regard, adherence to international law is essential,” Modi said during the meeting.
The Indian prime minister also strongly condemned recent attacks on the UAE and attempts to violate the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Modi reaffirmed India’s support for the UAE, saying New Delhi would continue to stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” with Abu Dhabi in efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.
The meeting took place during Modi’s brief stop in the UAE as part of his five-nation tour covering the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. The visit comes amid heightened tensions surrounding Iran, growing security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz and volatility in global energy markets.
The regional developments coincided with a US announcement offering rewards of up to USD 15 million for information on six individuals allegedly linked to the drone-production wing of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The US State Department said the individuals were associated with the Kimia Part Sivan Company (KIPAS), identified by Washington as part of the IRGC Quds Force’s drone operations.
Israel’s military issued evacuation warnings for residents of five villages in southern Lebanon ahead of expected strikes targeting Hezbollah positions despite an existing ceasefire agreement.
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee accused Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire and warned that Israeli forces would respond “forcefully”.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called for an immediate halt to the conflict involving Iran and stressed the importance of avoiding disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
China’s Foreign Ministry also urged all parties to pursue negotiations quickly, warning that the conflict had created serious regional repercussions and threatened global energy security.
Oil prices climbed more than one percent amid continued concerns over shipping security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes.
Brent crude futures rose above USD 106 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude climbed above USD 102 per barrel as traders monitored developments in the Gulf region.
This post was last modified on May 15, 2026 2:29 pm