Elon Musk joins PM Modi-Trump call in unusual move amid Iran war: NYT

Elon Musk joined a PM Narendra Modi-US President Donald Trump call on the Iran war, an unusual move for a private citizen during wartime diplomacy, raising questions about protocol, influence and the billionaire's growing geopolitical footprint.

In Short

• Musk's presence unusual as he holds no government role
• Call focused on Strait of Hormuz's security and energy flow
• No official comment on Musk's role in the high-level discussion

In a striking departure from diplomatic norms, tech titan Elon Musk joined a high-level call between the United States and India as tensions escalated over the Iran war, according to a report by The New York Times.

“Elon Musk participated in a phone call on Tuesday with President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, an unusual appearance by a private citizen on a call between two heads of state during a wartime crisis,” the report said.

The inclusion of Musk, who holds no official government role, stood out given the sensitivity of discussions between world leaders, particularly during an active conflict.

According to The New York Times, the call focused on the escalating crisis in the Middle East, especially concerns over Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy chokepoint.

It remains unclear why Musk was included or whether he actively participated in the discussion.

BACKCHANNEL INFLUENCE OR COINCIDENCE?

The report, citing US officials, noted that Musk’s presence may signal improved ties with President Donald Trump after a reported fallout last year. His business interests — spanning space, energy and emerging markets — intersect with regions directly impacted by the crisis, including the Gulf and India.

Musk has also been seeking to expand his footprint in India, where regulatory approvals for ventures such as satellite internet services remain pending.

The leaders’ discussion centred on ensuring stability in the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil and gas shipments pass.

MODI, TRUMP EMPHASISE HORMUZ SECURITY

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor earlier said that during the call, the leaders highlighted the importance of ensuring the key waterway remains accessible amid rising tensions. PM Modi later described the conversation as a “useful exchange,” reiterating India’s support for de-escalation and an early return to peace.

The call came as Modi told Parliament that any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is “unacceptable,” citing concerns over attacks on commercial vessels and instability along key shipping routes.

Addressing the Lok Sabha, he said India is pursuing diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe passage of its ships. In the Rajya Sabha, he warned the crisis has unsettled the global economy, disrupting trade routes and affecting supplies of fuel, gas and fertilisers.

The disruption to shipping has already triggered sharp rises in global energy prices and heightened fears of supply shortages in parts of Asia.

QUESTIONS OVER PROTOCOL

The New York Times noted that it is rare for private citizens to be included in calls between heads of state, where sensitive national security issues are often discussed.

Neither the White House nor Indian officials mentioned Musk’s participation in official readouts of the call.

The White House declined to comment on the matter, while Musk did not respond to requests for clarification.

- Ends