PM Modi Condemns Attacks on Gulf States: High-Level Mission to Protect Indians Begins

In a series of high-stakes diplomatic maneuvers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has formally condemned the recent military strikes on key Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. According to a report by The Times of India, these escalations follow a major regional flare-up that has put the lives of millions of expatriates at risk. The Prime Minister emphasized that protecting the Indian diaspora, which numbers nearly 10 million in the region, is the government's "utmost priority." As tensions between Iran and the U.S.-Israel alliance reach a breaking point, New Delhi has activated a comprehensive strategic framework to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens while maintaining a delicate diplomatic balance.

The Escalating Crisis in West Asia

The current crisis was ignited by a massive joint military operation by the United States and Israel, dubbed "Operation Roaring Lion," which targeted high-level Iranian assets on February 28, 2026. This operation resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader and several senior military officials, triggering a wave of retaliatory ballistic missile and drone attacks across the Gulf. Countries such as Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE have found themselves in the crosshairs as Iran retaliated against U.S. assets and regional allies.

For India, the stakes could not be higher. The Gulf region serves as the backbone of India's energy security and is home to the largest Indian expatriate community in the world. Prime Minister Modi's swift outreach to regional heads of state reflects the urgency of the situation. This proactive diplomacy is a hallmark of his administration, as seen during the recent Shalom Modi visit where Netanyahu broke protocol to welcome him, signaling India's pivotal role in Middle Eastern stability.

Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) Takes Charge

Immediately upon his return from a visit to Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Modi chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the unfolding events. The CCS was briefed on the specific impact of the strikes, including the targeting of civilian infrastructure in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The committee expressed grave concern over the safety of Indian travelers transiting through major hubs and students appearing for examinations in the region.

The directive from the CCS was clear: all relevant departments, including the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, must coordinate to provide every possible assistance to affected Indian nationals. While full-scale evacuations are currently complicated by the closure of regional airspace, the government is exploring "necessary and feasible measures" to assist those stranded. This includes the possibility of special relief flights as soon as security conditions permit.

Protecting the Diaspora of World

The safety of the Indian community, often described as the most significant "diaspora of world" in terms of economic contribution and size, remains at the heart of India's foreign policy. PM Modi held separate telephone conversations with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. During these calls, he thanked the regional leaders for their continued attention to the welfare of Indians living in their respective kingdoms during these turbulent times.

In the UAE, where Iranian strikes have caused civilian casualties, the Prime Minister expressed deep solidarity. Reports indicate that at least one Indian national was injured in the strikes, though they are currently stable and receiving treatment. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai have been placed on high alert, activating 24x7 helplines to assist the 3.5 million Indians residing in the Emirates.

Strategic Interests and Diplomatic Balancing

India's response to the current crisis highlights a sophisticated balancing act. For decades, New Delhi has maintained productive ties with both Iran and the Arab states of the Gulf. However, the recent condemnation of the strikes on Saudi Arabia and the UAE as "violations of sovereignty" marks a subtle shift in tone. This alignment with the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) is driven by deep-rooted strategic partnerships in areas like defense, maritime security, and technology.

The Prime Minister's strategic foresight has been recognized globally. Even at Davos 2026, Donald Trump praised Modi, hinting at a new era of global leadership. By elevating ties with Israel to a "Special Strategic Partnership," India has solidified its position within the emerging I2U2 and IMEEC frameworks. The current conflict threatens to derail the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), a project critical to India's long-term economic vision of a "Vikasit Bharat."

Economic Impact: Energy and Remittances

Any prolonged instability in the Gulf has direct economic consequences for India. The region accounts for a significant portion of India's crude oil and LNG imports. Disruptions at major ports or the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a sharp spike in global energy prices, impacting India's fiscal health and domestic inflation.

Furthermore, the Gulf is the source of billions of dollars in remittances annually. These funds support millions of families across India, particularly in states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The government is monitoring the situation closely to ensure that the financial channels remain open and that the livelihood of the diaspora is not permanently disrupted by the military escalation. This focus on doing what is best for the people reflects the sentiment that Modi will do what is right for his nation, regardless of global pressure.

Emergency Advisories for Indian Nationals

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued stringent advisories for Indians in the region. Citizens are urged to avoid all non-essential travel and to remain in close proximity to designated shelters. In countries like Israel and the UAE, where missile threats are active, the embassies have instructed nationals to strictly follow the guidance provided by local home front commands and emergency management authorities.

Specific helplines have been established across 10 countries in West Asia. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has released 24x7 emergency contacts, while the mission in Doha has adjusted its consular operations to prioritize emergency labor and passport issues. These measures are part of a broader "High-Level Mission" to provide a safety net for every Indian citizen caught in the conflict zone.

Aviation and Travel Disruptions

The aviation sector is currently facing its biggest challenge since the pandemic. Hundreds of flights between India and West Asian hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Kuwait have been cancelled or diverted. This has left thousands of Indian passengers stranded at airports. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is in constant dialogue with international carriers to arrange for rerouting and to ensure the safety of Indian aircraft transiting the area.

In Kuwait, reports of downed aircraft and malfunctions have added to the anxiety. The Indian government has advised its citizens to monitor official news channels and avoid relying on unverified social media reports that could trigger panic. The emphasis remains on calm, cooperation, and adherence to local security protocols.

India's Call for De-escalation

Despite the strategic shift towards the GCC, India continues to advocate for a peaceful resolution. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has held extensive discussions with his counterparts in both Tehran and Tel Aviv. India's position is that "dialogue and diplomacy" are the only viable paths forward. By refusing to join the chorus of condemnation against specific actors while calling for regional peace, New Delhi maintains its credibility as a potential mediator.

The Prime Minister's message to both Benjamin Netanyahu and the Gulf leaders was consistent: the targeting of civilians must stop immediately. India's history of successful evacuations, such as Operation Ganga in Ukraine and Operation Kaveri in Sudan, provides a blueprint for how the government might act if the situation necessitates a full-scale repatriation effort.

The Role of International Partners

India is not acting alone. During a recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, PM Modi discussed the West Asia situation as a matter of "grave concern." Global coordination is essential to prevent the conflict from spiraling into a wider regional war that could involve global superpowers. India's voice as a leading democracy is crucial in building a consensus for peace.

The cooperation between Indian missions and local Gulf authorities has been exemplary. The UAE's National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority has been in regular contact with the Indian Embassy to coordinate safety alerts. This high level of cooperation ensures that the 10-million-strong diaspora receives accurate, life-saving information in real-time.

Preparing for the Long Haul

As the military situation remains volatile, the Indian government is preparing for all contingencies. This includes potential supply chain disruptions and the need for long-term support for returning citizens. The "High-Level Mission" is not just about immediate safety; it is about ensuring the resilience of India's connections to the West Asian region.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's condemnation of the attacks on Gulf states is a decisive step in protecting India's national interests and its citizens abroad. By leveraging its growing diplomatic influence and maintaining a focus on civilian safety, New Delhi aims to navigate this unprecedented crisis with minimal impact on its people and its path toward economic prosperity.

Source & AI Information: External links in this article are provided for informational reference to authoritative sources. This content was drafted with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence tools to ensure comprehensive coverage, and subsequently reviewed by a human editor prior to publication.