India has launched an urgent diplomatic offensive as West Asia descends into a wider conflict following unprecedented military strikes. On Saturday, February 28, 2026, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held high-stakes telephonic conversations with his counterparts in both Israel and Iran, reiterating New Delhi’s firm stance: de-escalation through “dialogue and diplomacy.”
The calls come at a critical juncture, as a joint US-Israel military operation (codenamed Roaring Lion and Epic Fury) targeted Iranian military and governmental hubs, reportedly leading to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act
- Call to Israel: Jaishankar spoke with Israeli FM Gideon Sa’ar, reiterating India’s call to avoid further military escalation.
- Call to Iran: In a separate conversation with Iranian FM Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Jaishankar expressed India’s “deep concern” over the strikes on Tehran and the potential for a regional firestorm.
- The Strategic Stake: India’s urgency is driven by the 9 million Indian nationals living in the Gulf and the fact that the region supplies nearly 60% of India’s energy imports.
Panic at Regional Hubs: Indians Stranded
The retaliatory strikes by Iran—targeting US and Israeli interests in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, and Kuwait—have triggered massive travel disruptions:
- Abu Dhabi Crisis: Flights were suspended at Zayed International Airport after missile interceptions caused panic. Indian passenger Sanjeev Mehta reported hearing alarms and witnessing smoke plumes over the city.
- Student Safety: Over 1,000 Indian students, mostly from Jammu & Kashmir, currently studying in Iran, have reached out to the Prime Minister’s Office via the JKSA seeking urgent safety assurances or evacuation.
- Embassy Advisories: Indian missions in Syria, Israel, and Iran have issued “stay indoors” and “avoid unnecessary travel” notices, urging all nationals to register immediately for swift assistance.
Major Developments (As of March 1, 2026)
| Location | Status | Key Impact |
| Tehran, Iran | State of Emergency | Death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei confirmed by state media. |
| Tel Aviv, Israel | High Alert | 21 injured in Iranian missile salvos; air defenses operating at 100%. |
| UAE (Dubai/Abu Dhabi) | Partial Airspace Closure | Flights diverted; minor fire at Burj Al Arab facade due to drone debris. |
| Srinagar, India | Protests | Demonstrations erupt in response to the death of the Iranian Supreme Leader. |
Safety Helplines for Indian Nationals
- Embassy in Syria: +963-993385973
- Embassy in UAE (Toll-Free): 800-46342
- Embassy in Iran: Indian nationals are advised to stay indoors and monitor the mission’s X (Twitter) handle for real-time updates.