Amid rising hostilities in the Middle East, India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held a telephonic conversation with Major General (Res) Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defence, on June 18 to receive an update on the evolving Israel-Iran situation.
According to a statement shared by the Ministry of Defence on social media platform X, the conversation came as regional tensions intensified following a series of military exchanges between Israel and Iran. “Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh received a call today from Maj Gen (Res) Amir Baram, Director General of Israel Ministry of Defence, regarding an update on the current situation,” the post said.
The dialogue between the two defence officials comes days after Israel launched airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear, missile, and military installations under “Operation Rising Lion” on June 13. The targeted attacks marked a significant escalation in hostilities, now continuing into their sixth day, with Iran launching retaliatory strikes in response.
Amid this backdrop, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made a rare public appearance, his second since the Israeli operations began. Khamenei dismissed U.S. calls for Iran to back down, warning that any American military intervention would result in “irreparable damage” for the U.S.
His remarks came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran on social media, urging unconditional surrender and suggesting that while the U.S. knows Khamenei’s whereabouts, it has no immediate plans to target him.
Though Trump initially refrained from fully endorsing Israel’s unilateral military campaign, his recent comments have hinted at a potential shift in U.S. posture. He has called for a resolution “much bigger” than a ceasefire, raising concerns about a broader conflict.
Reports also suggest that the U.S. has deployed additional warships and military aircraft to the region, further fuelling fears of escalation.
India, meanwhile, has expressed its concern over the fast-deteriorating situation. The Ministry of External Affairs earlier said that India is “deeply concerned” about the recent developments and is “closely monitoring” the unfolding crisis. New Delhi has also urged both nations to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could aggravate tensions further.
With global attention focused on the volatile region, India’s engagement with Israeli defence authorities underscores New Delhi’s efforts to stay informed and prepared amid rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics.
