Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha that 67,000 Indian nationals have returned to India from conflict-affected countries in West Asia as of March 8, as the government continues efforts to assist citizens amid the ongoing crisis in the region.
“India is in favour of peace and urges a return to dialogue and diplomacy. We advocate de-escalation, restraint, and ensuring the safety of civilians,” he said. “The well-being and security of the Indian community in the region is our priority. And our national interests, including energy security and trade, will always remain paramount.”
India, Jaishankar said, expressed deep concern at the outset and urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise civilian safety, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolve the crisis while respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region.
Amid opposition MPs staging a walkout of the House after they vociferously put across their demand for a discussion on the issue, the minister said the government is closely monitoring the escalating conflict and has taken multiple steps to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region and safeguard the country’s strategic interests, he said.
The latest round of hostilities that began on February 28 has seen fighting between Israel and the United States on one side and Iran on the other, along with attacks on several Gulf countries and significant casualties, including among Iran’s leadership.
Jaishankar said the Cabinet Committee on Security met on March 1 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reviewed the situation, including implications for regional security, economic activity and the safety of the large Indian community in the Gulf.
He noted that nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, while a few thousand are in Iran for study or employment, making regional stability critical for India. The Gulf is also central to India’s energy security and trade, accounting for nearly USD 200 billion in commerce, he said.
Jaishankar said the government had issued a series of travel advisories since January, urging Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran and advising those already there to remain in contact with the Indian embassy and follow safety precautions.
