On April 21, 2026, a panel discussion titled ‘Strait Talk: Mapping India’s Stakes in West Asia’ took place in Mumbai, organized by the Asia Society India Centre in collaboration with Burgundy Private and Axis Bank. The event featured prominent figures including former diplomat Navdeep Suri, professor C. Raja Mohan, economist Neelkanth Mishra, and journalist Rajdeep Sardesai. The panel underscored the trust deficit that poses a significant challenge to the ongoing Iran-U.S. talks aimed at resolving the West Asia conflict. Discussions highlighted the internal divisions within Iran that further complicate the negotiations. Additionally, the panel addressed the growing influence of China in the region and how it affects India's strategic positioning. The insights shared during the event reflect the complex geopolitical landscape of West Asia and the critical need for trust-building measures to facilitate dialogue.