02 March,2026 10:40 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
The CCS meeting followed a dramatic escalation after a joint United States-Israel attack. Pic/PTI
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewed the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East. Steps to assist stranded Indians were also discussed in affected countries were also discussed during the meet, an official statement said.
The high-level meeting focused on the escalating hostilities following recent military developments involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
An official statement stated that the CCS was briefed on the February 28 air strikes in Iran and the subsequent escalation, including retaliatory attacks across several Gulf nations.
The committee emphasised the urgent need for de-escalation, calling for an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy.
The CCS directed all concerned departments to take necessary and feasible measures to assist Indian nationals affected by the unfolding crisis.
According to the PTI, particular attention was paid to --
- Indian travellers stranded in transit hubs
- Students scheduled to appear for examinations
- Broader regional security, economic and commercial disruptions
Following Iran's retaliation after the US-Israel attacks in Tehran, much of West Asia's airspace currently closed, flight services have been severely disrupted. Hundreds of Indian nationals are reportedly stranded at major hub airports including Dubai and Doha, with many appealing for assistance through social media platforms, the news agency reported.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that Indian missions across the region remain in continuous contact with citizens. Emergency helplines have been activated to provide support and guidance.
The CCS meeting followed a dramatic escalation after a joint United States-Israel aerial bombardment targeted Iranian military and governmental sites. Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, aged 86.
Iran responded with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, US military installations across the Gulf, and commercial hubs including Dubai.
US President Donald Trump stated that the operation was intended to provide Iranians with what he described as their "greatest chance" to reclaim their country, adding that precise and sustained bombing could continue as long as necessary.
The PTI reported that the CCS meeting was attended by key members of the Union Cabinet and senior officials, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Also present were senior administrative and defence officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Secretary.
Approximately 10,000 Indian citizens reside in Iran, while more than 40,000 live in Israel. The wider Indian diaspora in the Gulf and West Asia region is estimated at nearly nine million, the PTI reported.
India has previously conducted large-scale evacuation operations in conflict zones, particularly across West Asia, successfully repatriating thousands of citizens during times of crisis.
(with PTI inputs)
