New Delhi, March 9: 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 on the volatile situation in the region, Jaishankar confirmed that the government has issued formal advisories to Indian nationals in Iran and emphasised that the safety of citizens remains the administration’s top priority.
“The Prime Minister continues to closely monitor developments, and relevant ministries are coordinating to ensure effective responses,” Jaishankar stated.
He added that the government maintains constant communication with Indians across the Gulf and confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Tehran remains “fully operational,” providing assistance to students affected by the conflict.
The Minister informed the House that the embassy has already facilitated the relocation of several students to safer areas. He also said intensive efforts are underway to assist Indians stranded in countries such as Qatar and Jordan to ensure their safe return.
Providing a grim update on maritime disruptions, Jaishankar said, “We have lost two Indian mariners (merchant shipping), and one remains missing.”
Detailing the broader geopolitical and economic implications, he said, “This ongoing conflict is of particular concern to India. Being in the neighbouring region, we have obvious stakes in ensuring stability in West Asia.” He reminded the House that approximately one crore Indians live and work in Gulf nations, with several thousand more in Iran for study or employment.
Jaishankar highlighted that the region is “key to our energy security” as it hosts critical suppliers of oil and gas.
He cautioned that “serious supply chain disruptions and a climate of instability are major concerns,” adding that the conflict has intensified while the regional security situation has “deteriorated significantly.”
According to the Minister, hostilities have now “spread to other countries, causing mounting destruction,” affecting normal life and activities in the region.
Reaffirming India’s diplomatic stance, Jaishankar reiterated that “dialogue and diplomacy are the ways forward for all sides to de-escalate.” He reminded Parliament that the government had raised concerns as early as last month.
“Our government issued a statement on February 20 expressing deep concerns and urging all sides to exercise restraint. We continue to believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to reduce tensions,” he said.
