PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump held a 40-minute phone conversation on Tuesday, where they discussed the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the progress in India-US bilateral relations. This was their third conversation this year, following earlier discussions in February on a trade deal and another call last month regarding the West Asia conflict.

During the call, both leaders reviewed cooperation across several sectors and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties. After the conversation, Modi shared an update on social media, saying, “Received a call from my friend President Donald Trump. We reviewed the substantial progress achieved in our bilateral cooperation in various sectors. We are committed to further strengthening our Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership in all areas.” He also added, “We also discussed the situation in West Asia and stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure.”

The Strait of Hormuz has become a major concern due to its closure amid rising tensions in the region. The blockade has disrupted global supplies of energy and key commodities such as fertilisers. India has consistently supported dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict and restore normalcy in the region.

Soon after the call, US Ambassador Sergio Gor briefed reporters, stating that Trump updated Modi on efforts to reopen the waterway. He strongly criticised Iran’s actions, saying the closure has affected the entire world. “They did talk about the blockade and the importance of [the strait] reopening as soon as possible. Frankly, this whole region, this whole world is suffering because of this. Why should one country be able to turn off the lights anywhere else in the world? It’s unfair, it needs to stop, and the US is determined to make that happen.”

When asked if the US had requested India’s help in reopening the strait, Gor clarified that the call was more about sharing updates. “I don’t want to say we sought help, but it was more of an update call.” He added that it is up to India to decide whether it wants to play a role in negotiations to end the conflict. The US, however, believes that multiple countries can contribute to resolving the situation.

His remarks came after recent talks between Iran and the US, brokered by Pakistan, ended without any breakthrough. Gor stressed that no single country should have the power to block an international waterway. “Right now, there’s only one country that is holding the Strait of Hormuz hostage. So, of course, we welcome all parties to encourage that to reopen. These are international waters. No country should be able to…blockade the whole world.”

Apart from the regional crisis, the conversation also covered key bilateral matters. Gor mentioned that several “big ticket items” are being discussed between the two countries and could be finalised soon. These include agreements in the energy sector and other areas. He indicated that some announcements may be made around the time of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s planned visit to India in May.

“We actually have some incredible deals that we’re hoping to finalise in time for Secretary of state Rubio’s visit at the end of May,” Gor said. “In terms of some of the deals that might get announced soon, it’ll be related to energy, it’ll be related to some other items, but stay tuned.” He also noted that a meeting of foreign ministers under the Quad grouping is expected during Rubio’s visit.

Gor did not provide details about a possible visit by Trump to India or the long-pending Quad Leaders Summit. He emphasised that Rubio’s visit is currently the main focus. He also highlighted the importance of India in US foreign policy, saying, “India’s vitally important to us. It’s an incredible partner. The President has an incredible relationship with your Prime Minister…If you look at Secretary Rubio, he does not travel much because he’s full-time at the White House. So the fact that he is coming over here shows the level of importance that the US gives to India.”

On the issue of US sanctions related to India’s purchase of Russian oil and its involvement in Iran’s Chabahar port, which are set to expire soon, Gor said decisions will be made later. “I don’t want to give anything out too prematurely, but, obviously, at some point, there will be decisions made on those.”

He also revealed a personal note from Trump at the end of the call. “I just want you to know we all love you.”

India and the US are currently working to rebuild their relationship after tensions last year. These tensions were caused by high tariffs imposed by the US on Indian exports, including penalties linked to India’s purchase of Russian energy. However, both sides have since reduced tariffs and made progress towards a trade agreement, which was discussed earlier this year.