Impact of West Asia war likely to be felt for long time, PM tells Lok Sabha

Country should be prepared and united, says Modi as he condemns attacks on commercial ships and obstruction of Strait of Hormuz; India has 5.3 million tonnes of petrol reserves, and govt.

- KALIDAS NEWDELHI

is working towards increasing this to 6.5 million tonnesThe situation in West Asia is "deeply concerning", and the impact of the war is likely to be felt for a long time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday (March 23, 2026), while briefing the Lok Sabha on the steps taken by his government to secure India's energy needs.

The country should be prepared and united, Mr. Modi said, urging all members to ensure the Indian Parliament sends out a "united and unanimous voice on the issue".

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The government should hold a proper discussion so that other members can put forth their views, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said after the Prime Minister's speech.

Earlier, making a statement in the Lok Sabha, the PM said he had spoken to the heads of state of most West Asian countries, all of whom had assured the safety of Indians.

"India has always raised its voice for peace in the interest of humanity. Dialogue and diplomacy are the solutions to this problem. Our efforts are aimed at reducing tensions and ending this conflict," Mr. Modi said, amid the thumping of desks by ruling party members.

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