US-Israel attack Iran: PM Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait, Qatar leaders; flags safety of Indians amid West Asia conflict

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pic/PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held separate telephonic conversations with Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman, Kuwait's Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, and Qatar's Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, expressing concern over the escalating conflict in West Asia, reported news agency PTI.

During the calls, PM Modi discussed the evolving security situation and conveyed India's concerns over recent attacks affecting countries in the Gulf region.

Focus on Safety of Indian Community

A key focus of the discussions was the safety and well-being of Indian nationals residing in these countries. Officials said the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of ensuring the protection of the Indian diaspora amid rising tensions.

Nearly 90 lakh Indians live and work across the Gulf and West Asia, making the situation particularly critical for India. In addition, around 10,000 Indians are in Iran and over 40,000 in Israel.

Series of Diplomatic Outreach Efforts

The outreach is part of a broader diplomatic engagement by India in response to the crisis. Over the past two days, Modi has also spoken with leaders from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Israel.

India has condemned attacks on sovereign nations and reiterated its support for peace and stability in the region.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which met recently, reviewed the situation and expressed serious concern over the safety of Indian citizens in the conflict zone, reported PTI.

Evacuation and Support Measures Underway

With much of West Asian airspace closed and flights disrupted, hundreds of Indians remain stranded in key transit hubs such as Dubai and Doha.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has activated helplines and directed Indian missions across the region to remain in constant contact with citizens and provide assistance, reported PTI.

Officials said the government is closely monitoring developments and is prepared to take necessary steps, including evacuation measures if required, to ensure the safety of Indian nationals, reported PTI.

India has previously carried out large-scale evacuation operations in conflict zones and is expected to respond similarly if the situation worsens.

(With inputs from PTI)