A New York Times report claims billionaire Elon Musk joined a phone call on Tuesday between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the Iran war. The unusual involvement of a private citizen has stirred diplomatic circles. Neither the US nor India has officially confirmed Musk's participation.
A surprising report has emerged amid the Iran-US-Israel conflict in the Middle East. The New York Times claims that on March 24, US President Donald Trump called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with billionaire Elon Musk joining the conversation. The discussion focused on the Middle East situation, keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, and global energy supply.
This was the first call between the leaders since US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, as the conflict entered its fourth week. Iran has blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, driving up oil prices and raising concerns in Asia. Prime Minister Modi posted on X: “India supports de-escalation and restoration of peace at the earliest. Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and accessible is essential for the whole world.”
According to the report, Trump dialed Modi to discuss the Gulf region's situation amid concerns over food and fuel security. Musk's presence is seen as unusual, as crises typically involve only government officials. It may signal a thaw in relations between Trump and Musk, who previously had a falling out after Musk left a Trump administration role. Musk awaits approval for satellite internet services in India.
The White House declined to comment. No response has come from the Indian government or Musk. Hindustan Times could not independently verify the information. The day before, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar.
