India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded to US-Israeli strikes on Iran on Saturday by calling for restraint. “India is deeply concerned about the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region. We urge all parties to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritize the safety of civilians,” the MEA statement said.
She added, “Dialogue and diplomacy should continue to calm tensions and address fundamental issues. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected.”
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Addressing concerns about Indian nationals in the Middle East, where the strikes have led to counter-attacks by Iran across US bases near cities, the State Department said: “Our missions in the region are in touch with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate warnings asking them to remain vigilant, stay in touch with missions, and follow local security directives.”
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There was no immediate news of any evacuation plans as the airspace over the Middle East and West Asia region remains closed due to overflights of fighter jets, missiles and drones.
Earlier in the day, the Civil Aviation Ministry said Minister K Ram Mohan “conducted a comprehensive review of preparedness and response measures with all relevant stakeholders”. A ministry press release on Saturday said the minister reviewed his influence on international air operations.
“Airports across the country, especially major international gateways, have been placed on operational alert to manage potential flight diversions, unscheduled landings, and passenger facilitation requirements,” she added.
There are more than 90,000 Indians in the Middle East, most of them in the UAE and about 10,000 in Iran.
Air India and IndiGo, the two major operators, have already suspended operations to and from the Middle East.
“The Ministry (of Civil Aviation) is also in close touch with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure smooth flow of information and proper coordination in case of any emergency requirements relating to Indian airlines or Indian nationals abroad,” the statement added.
“Indian airlines operating international services have been advised to constantly monitor airspace warnings, air mission notifications and route restrictions issued by relevant authorities. Airlines have been directed to ensure timely rerouting or diversion of flights, wherever required, in strict accordance with global safety protocols and applicable contingency planning procedures,” it said.
