What Steps is India Taking to Protect Nationals Amid West Asia Tensions?

Cabinet Committee on Security Addresses West Asia Crisis

New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened to assess the ongoing situation in West Asia, instructing relevant departments to implement necessary measures to support Indian citizens impacted by recent events.

During the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the CCS emphasized the urgent need for a halt to hostilities and a shift back to diplomatic discussions.

An official announcement indicated that the CCS was briefed on the air strikes in Iran on February 18 and the subsequent escalation of violence, which has affected several Gulf nations.

The committee expressed grave concerns regarding the safety of the substantial Indian expatriate population in the area.

Additionally, the CCS evaluated the challenges faced by Indian travelers passing through the region and students preparing for upcoming examinations, along with the wider implications for regional stability and economic activities.

The CCS reiterated the necessity for all relevant departments to take prompt and effective actions to assist Indian nationals caught in the turmoil. It highlighted the critical need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomatic efforts.

The meeting included key figures such as National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Principal Secretaries to the Prime Minister P K Mishra and Shaktikanta Das, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.