US-Israel attack Iran: BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi temporarily closed

BAPS Hindi Mandir in Abu Dhabi. (Pic/X@BAPSHindu Mandir)

A sudden wave of global turmoil has intensified after the US-Israel attack on Iran. The United States of America, along with Israel, launched a military strike on Iran on Saturday, triggering retaliatory action that has heightened security concerns across the Gulf region.

In response to the Israeli attack, Iran reportedly fired missiles and drones targeting several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, among others.

In view of concerning situations in the United Arab Emirates, the BAPS Hindu Mandir, while posting on social media platform X, has announced that the premises will be temporarily closed to visitors.

While taking it to X, the official handle of BAPS Hindu Mandir wrote, "As the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi remains temporarily closed to visitors, the Swamis continue to offer special prayers within the sacred sanctums of the Mandir. In these deeply spiritual moments, their devotion carries prayers for peace, protection, and the well-being of all."

The BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi also appealed to the community to remain calm as authorities continue efforts to safeguard the nation amid this extremely critical time.

While urging people to stay calm, the BAPS Hindu Mandir also added, "BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi appealed to the community to remain calm as authorities continue efforts to safeguard the nation."

Soon after the retaliatory fire from Iran was launched at the UAE, authorities across the region swiftly activated emergency protocols and heightened air defence systems amid fears of further escalation.

In the UAE, officials indicated that the majority of incoming missiles and drones were intercepted by the country's advanced air defence systems, preventing large-scale damage.

Airlines suspend flights to the Middle East

Major airlines, including IndiGo, Akasa Air, Qatar Airways and Emirates, on Monday suspended or extended the suspension of flights to and from Middle Eastern destinations amid ongoing regional tensions, offering passengers full flexibility with waivers and refunds.

IndiGo on Monday, while posting on X, said that it has continued to meticulously evaluate the evolving regional developments and their potential impact on flight operations. The airline further added that after reviewing the latest operational inputs, it is taking the course that it believes is most responsible for its guests, given the priority of safety.

"As part of our continued precautionary approach, the temporary suspension of select international flights operating through parts of the Middle Eastern airspace has been extended. Additionally, certain other international services have been put in line with operations with evolving conditions. Please check your flight status for the latest updates," IndiGo said in a travel advisory.