India on Saturday urged all stakeholders in West Asia to exercise restraint and prevent further escalation following United States and Israeli attacks on Iran. It called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve underlying issues while stressing the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
New Delhi’s response came hours after American and Israeli forces targeted Tehran and other Iranian cities, prompting retaliation from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which launched missiles and drones at Israel and at military facilities used by the United States in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region and said in a statement that all sides should exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise civilian safety. It added that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to reduce tensions and address underlying concerns.
The statement also emphasised that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected.
Indian missions across the region are in contact with Indian nationals and have issued advisories asking them to remain vigilant, stay connected with embassies and follow local security guidance.
The attacks took place two days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed a visit to Israel, where he held talks with his counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu. During a joint media interaction on Thursday, Modi said that peace and stability in West Asia are directly linked to India’s security interests.
He noted that India has supported dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes from the beginning and said this reflects the position of the Global South and the broader interests of humanity. Modi also reiterated India’s backing for the Gaza Peace Plan, which he said has opened a pathway toward peace.
India has sought to maintain a balance between its expanding strategic and security ties with Israel, where around 40,000 Indian workers live, and its long standing reliance on West Asian nations for energy and trade. More than 10 million Indians live and work across West Asia and send home billions of dollars in remittances. Iran itself hosts nearly 10,000 Indians, including students and professionals.
Indian missions in Bahrain, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates issued advisories urging citizens to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel. The embassy in Jordan also advised Indian tourists to leave the country immediately before commercial flights are disrupted.
People familiar with the matter said India is closely monitoring the situation and will take appropriate steps to safeguard its nationals. There are currently no immediate plans to evacuate Indians from the region, though authorities remain prepared for all contingencies.
