Humanitarian Crisis Emerges Amidst Conflict in the Middle East

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has transformed into a humanitarian crisis, with over 9 million Indians caught in the turmoil. Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, many Indian nationals, including students and workers, are pleading for evacuation assistance from the Indian government. The Ministry of External Affairs has set up emergency helplines and is coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens. As tensions rise, families in India anxiously await news of their loved ones, hoping for swift government action to bring them home. This situation highlights the urgent need for diplomatic intervention and support for those affected.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 2, 2026, 14:36 IST

Escalating Conflict in the Middle East

The intense conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States in the Middle East has escalated into a significant humanitarian crisis. Over 9 million Indians residing in Gulf countries find themselves caught amidst the chaos of missile strikes and sirens. Appeals for repatriation from Indian citizens are echoing from various locations, including medical colleges in Tehran and luxury hotels in Dubai. The attacks, which began following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, have sent shockwaves throughout the Gulf region. Countries like the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, which host a large Indian expatriate population, are now resonating with the sounds of war sirens.

Desperate Appeals for Evacuation

A surge of requests from Indian nationals has flooded in, with many reaching out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for assistance in their evacuation. The MEA has issued emergency helpline numbers for Indians in affected regions, providing support for medical emergencies, safety concerns, and queries related to evacuation. One worker in Dubai shared on Instagram, "I came here for work, but now I am trying to avoid bombs. I request Modi Ji and the Indian government to evacuate us from here."

Tourists and Students Stranded

Tourists are also trapped in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, while MBA and medical students in the Middle East are posting videos on social media pleading for help from the Indian government. Among the over 9 million Indians in the region, many are workers who migrated in search of better opportunities. Even popular tourist destinations like Dubai are experiencing missile attacks, instilling fear among visitors as sirens wail across Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Students in Iran Seek Urgent Assistance

Indian students in Iran, particularly those studying medicine in Tehran, have shared emotional videos seeking help. One female student expressed, "I am an Indian student currently in Tehran. The situation here feels very dire and uncertain. We genuinely do not know what will happen next. We are truly grateful that the Indian government and the MEA are negotiating for our safety. However, speed is crucial at this time... airstrikes are happening, and conditions are worsening for us. We request a swift and clear evacuation..."

Kashmiri Students Also Affected

Notably, there are at least 2,000 Kashmiri students in Iran, many of whom are pursuing medical studies. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has written to PM Modi requesting diplomatic intervention and expedited evacuation.

MEA's Emergency Helplines for Indians

What are the MEA's helplines for Indians in Iran and the Middle East?

The MEA has released a list of emergency contacts for Indians in the region:

- Ramallah (Palestine): Phone: +970592916418; Email: repoffice@mea.gov.in / cons.ramallah@mea.gov.in

- Doha (Qatar): Phone: 00974-55647502; Email: cons.doha@mea.gov.in

- Riyadh (Saudi Arabia): Phone: 00-966-11-4884697; WhatsApp: 00-966-542126748; Toll-Free: 800 247 1234; Email: cw.riyadh@mea.gov.in

- Tel Aviv (Israel): Phone: +972-54-7520711 / +972-54-2428378; Email: cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in

- Tehran (Iran): Phone: +989128109115 / +989128109109 / +989128109102 / +989932179359

- Abu Dhabi (UAE): Toll-Free: 800-46342; WhatsApp: +971543090571; Email: pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in / ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in

- Kuwait: Phone: +96565501946; Email: community.kuwait@mea.gov.in

- Bahrain: Phone: 00973-39418071

- Muscat (Oman): Toll-Free: 80071234; WhatsApp: +96898282270; Email: cw.muscat@mea.gov.in / cons.muscat@mea.gov.in

- Jordan: Phone: 00962-770 422 276

- Baghdad (Iraq): Phone: +964 771 651 1185 / +964 770444 4899

Government's Response to the Crisis

On Saturday, the MEA expressed deep concern regarding the developments in Iran and the Gulf. The ministry stated, "India is very concerned about the recent events in Iran and the Gulf region. We urge all parties to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritize the safety of civilians." The ministry emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and respect sovereignty.

Indian Missions in the Gulf Stay Alert

Indian missions are in contact with citizens, advising them to remain vigilant and adhere to local guidelines. However, due to closed airspace and the presence of fighter jets, missiles, and drones in the area, no immediate evacuation plans have been announced. The Ministry of Civil Aviation, under Minister K. Ram Mohan, reviewed preparations on Saturday. Airports in India are on alert for passenger needs and diversions. The ministry is coordinating with the MEA for any emergencies related to Indian carriers or citizens.

Challenges Faced by Indian Nationals

Over 10,000 Indians reside in Iran alone. Major airlines like Air India and IndiGo have suspended flights to the region. Carriers are monitoring advisories and Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) for rerouting. Political leaders have also joined the call for action. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Kuldeep Singh Sandhwan have appealed to PM Modi to evacuate citizens, especially Punjabis, from conflict zones, requesting special airlifts once routes reopen.

Students Stranded in Dubai

Around 90 individuals from Pune, including 84 MBA students and four faculty members from the Indira School of Business Studies, are stranded in Dubai after a study tour. Authorities have relocated them to a hotel, ensuring their safety. The group was scheduled to return over the weekend but could not do so due to the closure of airspace.

Escalating Tensions Following Khamenei's Death

The crisis in the Middle East intensified following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli attack on Saturday morning. Iran has launched attacks on several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, where American bases are located.

Families in India Anxiously Await Government Action

As the war escalates, families in India are anxious and hoping for swift government intervention to bring their loved ones home. The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and is doing everything possible to assist.