An Indian citizen who sustained injuries during a Houthi attack on the airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has died, raising the total number of Indian fatalities in the ongoing West Asia conflict to 24. The Indian embassy in Riyadh announced this tragic news on social media on Wednesday, stating that the individual had been critically injured in the attack on 10 October and had succumbed to his injuries while in the intensive care unit.

The embassy expressed its condolences but did not provide further details regarding the deceased. This incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by Indian nationals in the region amid escalating hostilities.

Ongoing Efforts to Assist Indian Nationals

In light of the recent escalation in violence, Indian authorities are collaborating with airlines and tour operators to facilitate the prompt return of numerous Indian pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia. The suspension of flights by Indian carriers has compounded the difficulties faced by these individuals, prompting urgent measures to ensure their safe return home.

The Indian government has consistently urged an end to the targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure in West Asia. It has expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia while denouncing the ongoing attacks on civil facilities by Houthi rebels. The Indian administration is advocating for the swift restoration of peace and stability in the region.

In the aftermath of the 10 October attack, one Indian was killed and ten others injured at King Khalid International Airport. This incident is part of a broader pattern of assaults on Saudi infrastructure by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels amid the ongoing conflict with the Saudi-supported Yemeni government.

Casualties Among Indian Seafarers

Seafarers have constituted a significant portion of the Indian casualties in the West Asia conflict, with fifteen out of the twenty-four fatalities being seafarers. The conflict, which escalated following attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel in February, has severely impacted the lives of many Indians working in the region.

On Monday, an Indian seafarer tragically lost his life when a projectile struck an Indian-flagged cargo vessel off the coast of Oman. In a related incident, Oman’s Coast Guard successfully rescued thirteen other Indian seafarers aboard the dhow MSV Al Jusufi, highlighting the dangers faced by those working at sea.

West Asia is home to over 10 million Indians, the majority of whom are employed in blue-collar roles, including positions in oil fields and infrastructure projects such as airports. Additionally, approximately 18,000 Indian seafarers are currently working on vessels in the region, underscoring the significant presence of Indian nationals in this volatile area.

Support from the Indian Embassy

The Indian embassy has been actively supporting the family of the deceased individual throughout this difficult time. It has assured the family that it will provide all necessary assistance to either repatriate the mortal remains to India or facilitate a funeral in Riyadh, depending on the family’s wishes.

In its statement, the embassy reiterated its commitment to standing by the families affected by these tragic events, ensuring that they receive the support and resources needed during this challenging period.

As the situation in West Asia continues to evolve, the Indian government remains focused on the safety and well-being of its citizens in the region, working diligently to address the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.

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