The Indian government has officially denied reports suggesting that tech mogul Elon Musk participated in a recent phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the call, which took place on March 24, was strictly between Modi and Trump, refuting claims made by a report from The New York Times.

The MEA spokesperson stated, “We have seen the story,” emphasizing that there was no involvement from Musk in the high-profile discussion. The conversation was primarily focused on the geopolitical landscape in West Asia, a region currently facing significant turmoil.

The New York Times had cited unnamed sources within the U.S. government, raising questions about why Musk would be involved in a dialogue between two world leaders, especially during a critical wartime crisis. The publication described this alleged inclusion as an unusual occurrence for a private individual during such a significant diplomatic exchange.

Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is not currently affiliated with the Trump administration. His previous associations with the U.S. government were limited to his role as a special government employee in the Department of Government Efficiency, a position he resigned from in May. This advisory body, initiated through an executive order on Trump’s first day in office in January 2025, was aimed at enhancing the efficiency of federal technology and software.

The MEA’s swift rebuttal underscores the sensitivity surrounding diplomatic communications, particularly amid ongoing global tensions. As India continues to engage in discussions with various nations, the government remains vigilant about managing its narrative in international affairs, especially in relation to influential figures like Musk.