20 March,2026 05:02 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
A projectile hits a residential compound in Saudi Arabia’s Al Kharj area earlier this month. FILE PIC
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday conveyed deep condolences over the death of an Indian national in Riyadh, as the government continues efforts to coordinate the repatriation of citizens affected by the escalating West Asia conflict.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia confirmed the fatality following recent security incidents in the Saudi capital on Wednesday, March 18, news agency ANI reported.
In an official statement, the diplomatic mission said, "The Embassy of India expresses its deepest condolences on the tragic demise of an Indian national in Riyadh due to recent events on March 18th."
Addressing an Inter-Ministerial Briefing in New Delhi, Additional Secretary in the Gulf Division at the Ministry of External Affairs, Aseem Mahajan, confirmed the casualty.
"Late last night, we received information regarding the tragic demise of an Indian national during an attack in Riyadh on 18th March. We express our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our mission in Riyadh is in touch with the family and is coordinating closely with the local authorities for the early return of mortal remains to India," Mahajan stated.
The Embassy also noted that its officials are actively engaging with the family to complete necessary formalities and extend consular assistance.
"The Embassy is in touch with the family and local authorities. We remain committed to extending all possible assistance in this matter," the statement added.
The MEA official provided a broader update on the impact of the hostilities, stating that the number of Indian casualties in the region has increased.
"Six Indian nationals have unfortunately lost their lives, and one is missing in various incidents. Our missions in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iraq, and the UAE are in regular touch with the concerned authorities regarding the missing Indian national and for the early repatriation of mortal remains of the deceased Indian nationals to India," he added.
Amid these developments, the government is also facilitating the return of those rescued from maritime zones affected by the conflict.
Mahajan said that 15 Indian crew members of MT Safesea Vishnu, who were safely rescued, departed Iraq on Thursday and are expected to arrive in India from Saudi Arabia today.
This follows earlier repatriation efforts in which 24 rescued Indian seafarers - 16 from MV MKD Vyom and 8 from MT Skylight - returned to India from Oman.
The conflict in the West Asian region has now entered its 21st day, with the Indian government and its missions in the region maintaining a high level of vigilance to monitor the security situation and ensure the safety of the Indian diaspora across the Persian Gulf.
(With ANI inputs)
