The Government of India has initiated a significant diplomatic and logistical operation aimed at ensuring the safety of its citizens as conflicts in West Asia escalate. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is spearheading these efforts, directly engaging with officials in Kuwait, Israel, Singapore, and Australia to address the evolving security concerns in the region.

Since late February, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reported the successful return of nearly one million Indian nationals from West Asia, despite many airspaces being restricted or closed. Indian diplomatic missions across the Gulf have mobilised to provide assistance and support to both expatriates and maritime workers in the affected areas.

Helplines have been established and are operating continuously, with missions working closely with Indian community associations and professional organisations to deliver timely information and aid. Special measures have been implemented to assist Indian crew members on vessels, ensuring their repatriation and consular access amid regional tensions.

Focus on Safe Return and Travel Logistics

To facilitate the safe return of citizens, India has set up alternative routes and non-scheduled flight corridors, enabling a consistent flow of passengers. Recent data indicates that 2,313 Indian nationals, including 1,028 students, successfully travelled to India via Armenia and Azerbaijan from Iran. Additionally, arrangements are being made for citizens to travel by road to Dammam, Saudi Arabia, from where flights are operating to India.

As air routes remain precarious, the MEA has confirmed that approximately 110 flights are expected to operate today from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, marking ongoing evacuation efforts. Iraq’s national airline has resumed direct flights, and land transit routes continue to function actively through Jordan and Saudi Arabia.

The government has emphasised the importance of adhering to local regulations for those who remain in the region, advising citizens to maintain contact with the nearest Indian embassy for the latest updates and safety protocols. As of April 14, around 9,55,000 passengers have been evacuated from West Asia to India.

Ongoing Diplomatic Engagements and Community Support

In addition to operational measures, the External Affairs Minister has maintained communication with the Foreign Minister of Kuwait regarding the local situation and the welfare of the Indian community. Discussions with the Foreign Minister of Israel also took place, focusing on the ongoing conflict and its implications for Indians living in the region.

Further dialogues have been established with the Foreign Ministers of Singapore and Australia to share mutual concerns regarding the regional instability. The Indian government assures that it remains in close coordination with State Governments and Union Territories to facilitate seamless information sharing and responses related to the mobility and safety of Indian nationals abroad.

Regular updates on travel advisories, flight availabilities, and consular assistance continue to be disseminated, reflecting the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens. Special attention remains directed towards Indian seafarers, with diplomatic missions providing necessary consular support and coordinating their return where needed.

Flights are operating from countries with open airspace, maintaining a steady flow of travelers. The collaboration with airlines in the UAE is ongoing with an anticipated hundred flights scheduled for today. Non-scheduled flights are also underway from Saudi Arabia and Oman, ensuring that Indian citizens can continue their travel amidst the crisis.

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