Amid the escalating tensions in West Asia, India has stepped up efforts to ensure the safe return of its citizens stranded in the region, with more than 52,000 Indians already flying back home following the partial reopening of regional airspace.
In a late-night statement on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs said the government is closely monitoring the evolving situation across West Asia and the Gulf region, particularly with regard to the safety and welfare of Indian nationals who were stranded during transit or short-term visits.
According to the ministry, commercial flight operations have gradually resumed after several countries in the region partially reopened their airspace.
This has enabled Indian and foreign airlines to operate both scheduled and special flights to facilitate the return of stranded passengers.
Between March 1 and March 7, more than 52,000 Indians travelled back to the country from the Gulf region.
Of these, 32,107 passengers returned on flights operated by Indian carriers, while others flew on foreign airlines.
Additional flights are expected to operate in the coming days to help more passengers return.
The MEA also said Indian missions in the region have issued detailed advisories and established round-the-clock helplines to assist citizens requiring support.
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Advising caution, the ministry urged all Indian nationals currently in the region to follow the guidelines issued by local authorities and the advisories released by Indian embassies and consulates in their respective locations.
The government reiterated that the safety and welfare of Indians abroad remains a top priority and said it continues to remain in touch with governments across the region to facilitate assistance for those in need, a report said.
The situation in West Asia remains volatile as the United States and Israel continue military strikes on Iranian targets, while Iran has reportedly retaliated with attacks on Israeli positions and US military bases across the region.
For Indians in countries where commercial flight services are still unavailable, the MEA advised them to stay in contact with the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for updates and guidance on the closest available travel options.
