Reports of Elon Musk’s possible involvement in a Trump-Modi call have raised questions, even as both leaders focus on securing global energy routes and easing tensions in West Asia.
US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a meeting; Elon Musk’s reported involvement in their recent call has raised questions. | IANS
The White House on Friday described US President Donald Trump’s recent phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “productive”, while remaining tight-lipped on reports that billionaire Elon Musk may have been part of the conversation.
The call comes at a sensitive moment, with rising tensions in West Asia and growing global concern over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, which is a crucial route for oil shipments. Any disruption in this corridor could have immediate ripple effects on global energy markets, especially for countries dependent on imports.
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Responding to queries from IANS, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “President Trump has a great relationship with Prime Minister Modi, and this was a productive conversation.” She did not confirm or deny a report by The New York Times that claimed Musk had joined the call.
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According to The New York Times, which cited two US officials, Musk’s involvement in the discussion would mark an unusual moment – a private business leader being present during talks between two heads of government.
The report suggested that Musk’s presence may point to improving ties between him and Trump after a public fallout last year.
“The inclusion of Mr Musk, confirmed by two US officials, suggests that the world’s richest man is back on better terms with the president,” reported The New York Times.
The two had reportedly parted ways after Musk stepped down from a government role linked to reducing the federal workforce under the Department of Government Efficiency.
“The two men had a falling out last summer following the billionaire’s departure from the government, where he had been tasked with slashing the workforce. They appear to have smoothed things over in recent months,” added the daily.
While recent interactions indicate that relations between the two may have stabilised, it remains unclear why Musk would be included in a diplomatic exchange of this nature, or whether he actively participated in the discussion.
The call between Trump and PM Modi zoomed in on the fast-changing situation in West Asia, with both leaders paying close attention to the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions in the region have been building over the past few days, raising concerns that any disruption to shipping through this narrow stretch of water could hit global supplies and push up energy costs.
In a post on X, PM Modi underlined the importance of keeping the route open.
Received a call from President Trump and had a useful exchange of views on the situation in West Asia. 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.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2026
“Ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure and accessible is essential for the whole world. We agreed to stay in touch regarding efforts towards peace and stability,” he said.
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