PM Modi Urges Iran to Ensure Maritime Security in Strait of Hormuz at SCO

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on September 1, 2026, during the SCO Summit. PM Modi urged Iran to prioritize regional stability, ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and protect civilian maritime traffic amidst escalating West Asian geopolitical tension.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime chokepoint situated between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, handling over 20 percent of global petroleum trade. India relies heavily on energy imports transiting this narrow maritime passage, making regional peace and unhindered navigation vital to national energy security and economic stability.

During the summit discussions, Iran requested India to leverage its extensive diplomatic contacts across Western nations and Middle Eastern powers to facilitate de-escalation dialogue. Both leaders also reviewed progress on Chabahar Port development, specifically the Shahid Beheshti Terminal operated by India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) under a 10-year lease agreement.

The summit outcome underscores India's strategic balancing act between West Asian nations, Israel, and Western allies. For UPSC aspirants, this forms critical content for Prelims questions on Persian Gulf geography, maritime chokepoints, and Chabahar Port, while aiding Mains GS-2 analysis of West Asia policy and energy security dynamics.