Amid the escalating conflict in West Asia following US-Israel strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation, India has warned that prolonged instability in the Gulf region could have serious economic consequences.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation since hostilities began on February 28. India reiterated its call for restraint, dialogue, and de-escalation, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
One Crore Indians in the Gulf
The government highlighted that nearly one crore Indian citizens live and work in the Gulf region, making their safety and well-being a top priority. It emphasized that India cannot remain unaffected by developments that threaten its diaspora.
“Our trade and energy supply chains traverse this geography. Any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy,” the statement said.
The Gulf and wider West Asian region remain critical to India’s energy security, maritime trade routes, and merchandise flows. Attacks on merchant shipping and regional infrastructure have already impacted supply chains, with reports indicating that some Indian nationals have lost their lives or gone missing in recent days.
Call for Dialogue and Diplomacy
India described the expanding conflict as a matter of “great anxiety,” noting the rising death toll and the disruption of normal life and economic activities across the region.
Reaffirming its diplomatic stance, New Delhi called for an early end to hostilities. “We raise our voice clearly in favour of dialogue and diplomacy,” the statement noted, expressing grief over the loss of lives.
Indian embassies and consulates across affected countries remain in close contact with the diaspora, issuing advisories and providing assistance to stranded citizens. The government confirmed that Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar are in touch with regional counterparts and key global partners.
New Delhi said it will continue to monitor the evolving situation closely and take decisions in the national interest as the crisis unfolds.