India Voices Concerns Over West Asia Conflict Amid Rising Tensions

India's Response to Escalating Conflict in West Asia

New Delhi: As tensions escalate in West Asia, India has highlighted the plight of one crore of its citizens residing in the region. The Indian government expressed its worries about potential disruptions to energy supplies that could adversely affect the national economy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in discussions with leaders from Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar regarding the ongoing situation.

In its latest statement following the US-Israel strikes on Iran and Iran's retaliatory actions, India reiterated its call for 'dialogue and diplomacy' to resolve the conflict, emphasizing its significant interests in the security and stability of West Asia, which have become a source of great concern.

The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to make decisions that serve national interests, maintaining communication with regional governments and other key partners.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that the conflict has intensified, spreading to additional nations, resulting in increased destruction and loss of life, while normal activities and economic operations have been severely disrupted.

With nearly one crore Indian nationals in West Asia, their safety is a top priority for New Delhi. The ministry stated, 'We cannot ignore any developments that could negatively impact them.'

The conflict has escalated as Iran continues to retaliate against several Gulf nations following the joint US-Israel attacks. The US and Israel have also conducted further strikes on Iranian targets.

Iran's actions have included blocking the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping route, leading to a spike in global oil prices.

The ministry highlighted that India's trade and energy supply routes pass through this region, and any significant disruption could have dire consequences for the Indian economy.

The Strait of Hormuz is crucial, handling nearly 20% of the world's oil and gas supplies, with about 50% of India's oil imports, approximately 2.6 million barrels daily, transiting through it.

Iran has launched a series of attacks primarily targeting Israel and US military bases across several Gulf nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.

The Iranian retaliation intensified after the announcement of the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei due to the US-Israel strike.

India, whose nationals are significant contributors to the global workforce, has condemned attacks on merchant shipping. Reports indicate that some Indian citizens have lost their lives or are missing due to these recent assaults.

In light of these developments, India has strongly reiterated its call for dialogue and diplomacy, advocating for an immediate end to the conflict. The loss of life is deeply regrettable, and the country expresses its condolences.

It has been reported that at least three Indian nationals were killed in Iranian attacks on two merchant vessels near Oman.

The MEA's statement did not address the death of Ayatollah Khamenei.

Indian embassies and consulates in the affected regions are actively communicating with Indian nationals and community organizations, providing regular updates and assistance.

They are committed to offering support to those stranded by the conflict and will continue to address various consular issues arising from the situation.

The ministry confirmed ongoing communication with regional governments and key partners, with the Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister engaging in discussions with their counterparts.

Following a conversation with Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, PM Modi expressed India's solidarity with Qatar and condemned any violations of its sovereignty.

He stressed the urgent need for peace and stability in the region through dialogue and diplomacy, appreciating Qatar's support for the Indian community during these challenging times.

PM Modi described his talks with Kuwait's Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah as 'productive,' reiterating India's condemnation of violations against Kuwait's sovereignty.

He emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for restoring regional peace and stability, acknowledging Kuwait's ongoing support for the Indian community.

In discussions with Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Modi expressed gratitude for Oman's support for Indian nationals and condemned violations of Oman's sovereignty.

India had previously issued a statement on February 28, shortly after the US and Israel initiated military actions against Iran, expressing deep concern over the conflict's onset and urging restraint and prioritization of civilian safety.

Regrettably, the situation has worsened significantly during the holy month of Ramadan.

Since Sunday, PM Modi has engaged in conversations with various leaders, including the President of the UAE, Israeli Prime Minister, Saudi Crown Prince, and the King of Bahrain.

The US military has reported the deaths of six personnel in the conflict, while the US-Israeli strikes have resulted in at least 787 fatalities, according to the Iranian Red Crescent Society. Reports indicate that at least 11 individuals have died in Israel.

In a related move, the Indian embassy in Iran has relocated most Indian students from Tehran due to heightened risks, arranging transportation, food, and accommodation for them.