The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday that more than 52,000 Indians stranded in West Asia returned on commercial flights during the period from March 1 to 7, and more flights are scheduled to be organized in the coming days, against the backdrop of escalating tensions over the Iranian-American conflict.
The Indian side has repeatedly emphasized the safety of over 10 million Indian citizens in West Asia and the preservation of energy and trade supply chains since Israel and the United States launched military strikes on Iran last month. Follow updates on Gulf news
The Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that the government is monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and the Gulf region, especially with regard to the well-being of Indian citizens stranded while in transit or on short-term visits.
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Following the partial opening of airspace across West Asia in the past few days, Indian and foreign airlines are operating commercial flights, including non-scheduled flights, to enable the return of Indian passengers transiting or on short-term visits, the statement said.
“So far, more than 52,000 Indians have benefited from these flights and traveled safely from the Gulf region to India from March 1 to 7,” the statement said.
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Of the total number, 32,107 traveled on Indian airlines. “More flights are scheduled to take place in the coming days,” the statement said.
In countries where commercial flights are not available, Indian citizens have been advised to contact embassies and consulates for information and advice on the nearest commercial flight options available.
The Ministry advised all Indian citizens in West Asia to follow the guidelines issued by local authorities and the guidelines issued by Indian embassies or consulates. Indian missions in these countries have issued detailed warnings and set up 24×7 helplines to address concerns due to the ongoing situation.
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs established a special control room to monitor and respond to inquiries from those affected and their families. Details of helplines are available at: https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/40846/Special_Control_Room_in_MEA
“The safety and well-being of Indian citizens abroad is a top priority for the government, which remains engaged with governments across the region to work to facilitate all those in need of assistance,” the statement said.
