India strongly reiterated its call for dialogue and diplomacy in the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region today. In a statement, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is clearly advocating for an early end to the conflict. He expressed grief over the many lives that have been tragically lost.
The spokesperson emphasized that there are almost one crore Indian citizens who live and work in the Gulf region, and their safety and well-being are of utmost importance. He said that India cannot be immune to any development that negatively affects it. Stating that trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography, Mr. Jaiswal underlined that any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy. As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. The spokesperson said that some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days.
Mr. Jaiswal said that the conflict has not only intensified in recent days but has also spread to other nations. The destruction and deaths have mounted, even as normal life and economic activities have come to a halt. The spokesperson said that these developments evoke anxiety as a proximate neighbour with critical stakes in the security and stability of the region.
New Delhi had expressed deep concern at the commencement of the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on 28th February. Even at that time, India had urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians. Mr. Jaiswal termed it unfortunate that even in the holy month of Ramadan, the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly and continuously.
Indian Embassies and Consulates in the affected countries remain in close touch with Indian nationals and community organisations, issuing regular advisories as appropriate. They have also extended all possible help to those stranded by the conflict. The Embassies and Consulates will continue to be proactive in addressing various consular aspects of this conflict. The spokesperson assured that India is in touch with the Governments of this region as well as other key partners. The Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister have held discussions with their counterparts. He said the government will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and take relevant decisions in the national interest.