New Delhi, Mar 04: India expressed its deep concern at the commencement of the conflict in Iran and the Gulf region on 28 February 2026, and urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritize the safety of civilians.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said that it is unfortunate that in the holy month of Ramadhan, the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly and continuously.
In recent days, we have not only witnessed an intensification of the conflict but also its spread to other nations. The destruction and deaths have mounted, even as normal life and economic activities come to a halt. As a proximate neighbour with critical stakes in the security and stability of the region, these developments evoke great anxiety, the MEA in a statement said.
It said there are almost one crore Indian citizens who live and work in the Gulf region. Their safety and well-being is of utmost priority. India cannot be impervious to any development that negatively affects them. Our trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography. 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. Already, some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days.
In this background, India strongly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy. We raise our voice clearly in favour of an early end to the conflict. Already, many lives have been regrettably lost and we express our grief in that regard, statement said.
It also said that Indian Embassies and Consulates in the affected countries remain in close touch with Indian nationals and community organizations, 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.
We are in touch with the governments of this region as well as other key partners. Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister have held discussions with their counterparts. The government will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and take relevant decisions in the national interest, the statement held.
