New Delhi, Mar 3 (UNI) India on Tuesday expressed deep alarm over the escalating conflict in West Asia, warning that the deteriorating security situation during the holy month of Ramadan poses serious risks to civilians, regional stability and nearly one crore Indian nationals living in the Gulf.
In a statement, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs said New Delhi had initially conveyed its “deep concern” when hostilities began in Iran and the Gulf region on February 28, 2026, urging all sides to exercise restraint and avoid escalation. “Unfortunately, in the holy month of Ramadan, the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly and continuously,” the spokesperson said.
The government noted that the conflict has not only intensified in recent days but has also spread to other countries in the region, compounding fears of wider instability. “The destruction and deaths have mounted, even as normal life and economic activities come to a halt,” the statement said, adding that as a proximate neighbour with critical stakes in regional security and stability, “these developments evoke great anxiety.”
India’s concerns are underlined by the significant presence of its citizens across the Gulf. According to the statement, nearly one crore Indians live and work in the region, making their safety and well-being an “utmost priority” for the government. “We cannot be impervious to any development that negatively affects them,” the spokesperson said.
Beyond the human dimension, New Delhi flagged serious economic implications. India’s trade and energy supply chains pass through the conflict-affected geography, and any major disruption could have significant consequences for the domestic economy. The government also voiced strong opposition to attacks on merchant shipping, pointing to recent incidents in which Indian nationals have lost their lives or gone missing. “As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping,” the statement said.
Reiterating its diplomatic stance, India called for an immediate de-escalation and a return to dialogue. “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,” the spokesperson said, expressing grief over the loss of lives so far.
Indian missions in the affected countries have stepped up engagement with the diaspora, remaining in close contact with community organisations and issuing regular advisories. The statement said embassies and consulates have extended “all possible help” to those stranded and will continue to proactively address consular issues arising from the conflict.
At the diplomatic level, India said it is in touch with governments in the region and other key partners. The Prime Minister and the External Affairs Minister have held discussions with their counterparts as part of ongoing efforts to monitor the situation and safeguard national interests.
“The Government will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and take relevant decisions in the national interest,” the spokesperson said, signalling that further measures could follow depending on developments on the ground.
