Elon Musk participated in a phone call earlier this week between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, marking a rare instance of a private individual joining a high-level discussion during an ongoing geopolitical crisis, The New York Times reported.
US officials confirmed Musk’s presence on the Tuesday call, which comes months after reports of a fallout between him and Trump following his exit from a government role—though recent developments suggest ties may have improved.
The conversation focused on rising tensions in West Asia, particularly the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, secure and accessible. The strategic waterway handles a large share of global oil shipments and is critical to international energy markets.
It remains unclear why Musk was included or whether he spoke during the call. However, his companies have financial links with Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds, and he has been seeking to expand business opportunities in India.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said the leaders discussed regional stability and the importance of ensuring uninterrupted maritime movement through the Strait.
In a post on X, Modi reiterated India’s support for de-escalation and early restoration of peace, adding that both sides agreed to stay in touch on efforts to maintain stability. The Indian readout also stressed that safe passage through the Strait is vital for global economic well-being.
The call came a day after Trump announced a five-day pause on potential US strikes on Iranian facilities, raising hopes of easing hostilities. It also coincided with reports that Washington may send Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for talks with Iranian officials.
Separately, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the conflict and its implications for global markets and India’s energy security with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. India has also been coordinating with Iran to facilitate the movement of Indian vessels, some of which remain near the Strait despite clearance granted to others.
Jaishankar also met Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, conveying New Delhi’s concerns and thanking Tehran for its support to Indian nationals.
India has not officially commented on Trump’s decision to delay military action on Iranian energy installations. The Ministry of External Affairs said it is closely monitoring the situation.
Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both Modi and Jaishankar have emphasised in their engagements that peace can only be restored through dialogue and diplomacy. India, like several European allies of the US, has shown little inclination to join a US-led naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
