Iran-Israel Crisis: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, on Monday, March 9, 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.
Making a statement in the Upper House on the evolving situation in West Asia, EAM Jaishankar said the government had been facilitating the return of Indian citizens whenever there were brief openings in regional airspace.
“Safety of Indians our main priority”
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha on Monday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Addressing the House regarding the volatile situation in West Asia, Jaishankar confirmed that the government has issued formal advisories to Indian nationals residing in Iran and emphasised that the safety of citizens remains the administration’s primary concern.
“The Prime Minister continues to closely monitor the emerging developments, and relevant ministries are coordinating to ensure effective responses,” Jaishankar stated.
67000 Indians returned from Middle East
“Whenever there has been a partial opening of airspace, we have approved and undertaken commercial flights, including non-scheduled flights to enable the return of Indian citizens. Our estimate, as of yesterday, is that 67,000 of our nationals have done so,” the External Affairs Minister said.
The minister further added that all efforts are underway to bring back Indians from the Middle East, adding that the Indian Embassy in Iran is fully operational.
EAM Jaishankar also informed the House that the Government of India is closely monitoring the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East, with particular attention to the safety of Indian citizens in the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has engaged with leaders of Gulf nations, emphasising the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions. On humanitarian grounds, an Iranian vessel has been allowed to dock in Kochi.
The Cabinet Committee on Security has expressed concern over the safety of Indians in West Asia, while the Ministry of External Affairs, led by S. Jaishankar, has stated that the situation in the region is a matter of deep concern and is being continuously monitored.
The government is coordinating with relevant ministries to ensure an effective response and is prepared to take necessary steps as the crisis unfolds. Given the Middle East’s crucial role in India’s energy security, these developments are being closely watched by the highest levels of leadership.
