New Delhi: India has called for de-escalation and a return to dialogue and diplomacy amid the escalating conflict in West Asia, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said on Monday. Making a suo motu statement in Parliament, he stressed that India supports peace and urges all sides to exercise restraint while ensuring the safety of civilians.
The latest crisis began on February 28 when the United States and Israel carried out military strikes on Iran, following which Iran launched retaliatory attacks on US positions in the region as well as Israel. The escalating hostilities have raised concerns over regional stability and civilian safety across West Asia.
Jaishankar said the safety and wellbeing of the Indian community in the region remains the government’s top priority. He added that India’s national interests, including energy security and trade, are also crucial, given the country’s strong economic and strategic ties with the Gulf region.
The minister informed that the Cabinet Committee on Security met on March 1 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review the situation. The meeting assessed the implications of the conflict for regional security, economic activity, and the safety of the large Indian community living in Gulf countries.
Highlighting the scale of India’s presence in the region, Jaishankar noted that nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf nations, while several thousand are in Iran for study or employment. The Gulf region also plays a critical role in India’s energy needs and trade, accounting for nearly USD 200 billion in commerce.
The government has taken multiple steps to assist Indian nationals in the region, including issuing travel advisories and facilitating relocation and evacuation efforts. Jaishankar said nearly 67,000 Indians have returned so far with government assistance, while a dedicated control room has been set up to monitor the situation and respond to requests from Indian citizens.
