New Delhi [India], August 21 : India on Friday said that it stands for a peaceful resolution of issues in West Asia through dialogue and diplomacy when asked about US President Donald Trump's threat of imposing tougher economic measures against Iran as the conflict in the region continues.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India is "closely monitoring developments" in West Asia.
"We stand for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy," he said during a media briefing.
The remarks came after Trump on Wednesday threatened what he described as the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY" against Iran, calling it "Economic Warfare and Isolation on an unprecedented scale."
Trump warned that countries allowing their financial institutions, businesses, airports or government entities to provide "any type of lifeline" to Iran would face what he termed "TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences".
Calling the campaign "Economic D-Day", Trump urged US allies to join Washington in further isolating Iran economically.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump specifically called for an end to Iranian oil smuggling, swap lines, cash transfers, exchange houses, ship registries and front companies, saying such activities "need to stop NOW".
The US President said the measures were aimed at further isolating Tehran economically and reiterated that Iran would not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
China has also responded to the US announcement, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian saying sanctions and pressure tactics were not the solution and calling on all parties to pursue a political and diplomatic approach.
"Sanctions and pressure tactics are not the solution. China calls on parties to act responsibly and stick to the political and diplomatic approach," Lin Jian said.
India's latest remarks come amid heightened tensions in West Asia and growing international concern over the potential economic and security consequences of further escalation by the US on Iran.
New Delhi has consistently advocated dialogue and diplomacy as the preferred means of resolving disputes and has called for de-escalation and regional peace and stability.