India Closely Tracking West Asia Situation, MEA Responds to Questions on Pakistan’s Role

New Delhi, Apr 17, 2026: India on Friday stated that it is carefully observing the evolving situation in West Asia, as questions arise globally about Pakistan’s involvement in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

Speaking during a routine press briefing, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that New Delhi is keeping a close watch on developments in the region but did not offer a detailed assessment of Islamabad’s role.

The remarks came after queries regarding praise from former US President Donald Trump for Pakistan and its army leadership over their reported contribution to the ceasefire process.

In response, the MEA adopted a restrained tone, indicating that India’s primary focus remains on monitoring the broader regional situation rather than commenting on specific claims.

Addressing another question, Jaiswal confirmed that India has been invited to participate in an upcoming international meeting hosted by Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer. The discussions are expected to centre around strategic concerns in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route.

He added that further details about India’s participation would be shared after the meeting takes place.

The ministry also provided an update on evacuation operations carried out amid the regional tensions. According to official figures, India has facilitated the return of 2,361 people from Iran since the conflict escalated.

This group includes over 1,000 Indian students, along with a few foreign nationals who were assisted during the evacuation process. Most evacuees were brought back through neighbouring countries such as Armenia and Azerbaijan.

On a separate note, the MEA confirmed India’s withdrawal from the upcoming COP33 climate summit. Despite this, officials emphasised that the country remains committed to its international climate obligations, including targets set under the Paris Agreement.

India, the spokesperson noted, continues to push forward with renewable energy initiatives and global collaborations such as the International Solar Alliance.