NEW DELHI: India on Tuesday reiterated its call for an “early end to the conflict” in Iran and the wider Gulf region, expressing deep concern over the rapid escalation of hostilities and the mounting civilian toll. The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said the situation, which began deteriorating from February 28, poses serious risks to regional stability, international trade, and the safety of nearly one crore Indian nationals living and working in the Gulf.“India strongly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy. We raise our voice clearly in favour of an early end to the conflict,” the MEA said in an official statement.Israel attacks IranUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Iran launches ‘massive missile’ strike at US airbase in Bahrain; Israel bombs BeirutFrom Khamenei’s compound to nuclear complex: Satellite images show aftermath of Iranian sites after US-Israel strikesOperation Epic Fury: US spends $700m in 24 hours; final war cost remains uncertain US-Israel-Iran War: Why Has India Not Condemned Khamenei’s Death Yet? According to the ministry, the government is “closely monitoring the evolving situation” and has been in touch with regional governments as well as other key international partners. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar have been speaking with their counterparts to assess developments and coordinate efforts.Jaishankar, in a post on X, shared about his dialogue with the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, Kaja Kallas, on the ongoing conflict in Iran and the Gulf. He wrote, “Had a telecon with EU HRVP Kaja Kallas. Our discussions focused on the ongoing conflict in Iran and the Gulf.”PM Modi also spoke to two important leaders from the Gulf region on Tuesday. He had a phone call with Sultan of Oman, his majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and the crown prince of Kuwait HH Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.During both discussions, the Prime Minister expressed concern at the attacks in the respective countries and discussed the welfare and security of the Indian community residing there.The MEA statement also noted that Indian embassies and consulates in the affected countries are actively assisting citizens on the ground.“They have also extended all possible help to those stranded by the conflict,” it said, adding that advisories and support networks are being updated regularly to ensure the safety and welfare of expatriates.India’s concerns extend beyond the welfare of its citizens. The MEA highlighted grave implications for trade and energy supply chains, noting that disruptions in the Gulf could severely affect India’s economy. The statement also condemned attacks on commercial vessels, after reports that some Indian crew members had been killed or gone missing in recent days.“As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping,” the ministry added.Recalling that it had earlier expressed “deep concern” when the conflict began on February 28, India underlined that it had urged “all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians.” The ongoing violence, it said, has only deepened its worry as the conflict has now spread to other nations during the holy month of Ramadan.Describing itself as a “proximate neighbour with critical stakes” in the region’s security and stability, India said it would continue to act decisively “in the national interest” while advocating peace and diplomacy.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“Not the Right Choice But The Only Choice”: IAF Veteran on Rafale DilemmaDelhi Police Detain 4,000 In Pre-Holi Crackdown Under Operation Aaghat 4.0Narendra Modi: Global Digital Leader Surpasses 30 Million YouTube SubscribersIndian Air Force Begins Process To Replace 20-Year-Old VIP Jets Used By Ministers And Military ChiefsIndia-Canada Uranium Deal Explained: Why It Matters For India’s Future?Will Suvendu Capture Mamata’s Stronghold? 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NEW DELHI: India on Tuesday reiterated its call for an “early end to the conflict” in Iran and the wider Gulf region, expressing deep concern over the rapid escalation of hostilities and the mounting civilian toll. The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said the situation, which began deteriorating from February 28, poses serious risks to regional stability, international trade, and the safety of nearly one crore Indian nationals living and working in the Gulf.“India strongly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy. We raise our voice clearly in favour of an early end to the conflict,” the MEA said in an official statement.
According to the ministry, the government is “closely monitoring the evolving situation” and has been in touch with regional governments as well as other key international partners. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar have been speaking with their counterparts to assess developments and coordinate efforts.Jaishankar, in a post on X, shared about his dialogue with the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, Kaja Kallas, on the ongoing conflict in Iran and the Gulf. He wrote, “Had a telecon with EU HRVP Kaja Kallas. Our discussions focused on the ongoing conflict in Iran and the Gulf.”PM Modi also spoke to two important leaders from the Gulf region on Tuesday. He had a phone call with Sultan of Oman, his majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and the crown prince of Kuwait HH Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.During both discussions, the Prime Minister expressed concern at the attacks in the respective countries and discussed the welfare and security of the Indian community residing there.The MEA statement also noted that Indian embassies and consulates in the affected countries are actively assisting citizens on the ground.“They have also extended all possible help to those stranded by the conflict,” it said, adding that advisories and support networks are being updated regularly to ensure the safety and welfare of expatriates.India’s concerns extend beyond the welfare of its citizens. The MEA highlighted grave implications for trade and energy supply chains, noting that disruptions in the Gulf could severely affect India’s economy. The statement also condemned attacks on commercial vessels, after reports that some Indian crew members had been killed or gone missing in recent days.“As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping,” the ministry added.Recalling that it had earlier expressed “deep concern” when the conflict began on February 28, India underlined that it had urged “all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians.” The ongoing violence, it said, has only deepened its worry as the conflict has now spread to other nations during the holy month of Ramadan.Describing itself as a “proximate neighbour with critical stakes” in the region’s security and stability, India said it would continue to act decisively “in the national interest” while advocating peace and diplomacy.
