New Delhi, March 28: The Indian government has categorically dismissed reports claiming that billionaire Elon Musk participated in a conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the discussion, which took place on March 24, was solely between PM Modi and President Trump.
This was the first conversation between the two leaders following military actions by Israel and the U.S. against Iran that began on February 28.
According to the Ministry, both leaders shared their views on the regional situation and emphasized the need to maintain peace. During the call, PM Modi expressed India’s desire for peace in the region and a reduction in tensions, stating that the Strait of Hormuz should remain safe and open for all.
The conversation primarily focused on the changing dynamics in West Asia. A spokesperson from the Ministry stated, “We have seen the news. The telephone conversation on March 24 was only between Prime Minister Modi and President Donald Trump,” completely rejecting claims of any third-party involvement.
This clarification came after a report by The New York Times, which cited ‘unnamed’ U.S. officials alleging that Elon Musk was part of the call between the two leaders. The report mentioned, “Elon Musk participated in a phone call with President Trump and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi; it is unusual for a private citizen to be involved in a call between two giants during a wartime crisis.”
The report further noted that Musk had a falling out with Trump last year after the billionaire stepped down from his role in the government, where he was tasked with reducing staff numbers. However, it remained unclear why Musk would be included in such a high-level diplomatic conversation or if he spoke during the call.