New Delhi:External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday (March 9) addressed Rajya Sabha on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and India's stand on the entire matter. During his address, Jaishankar said that the Indian government continues to believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate the tensions. He further added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East.
"As honourable members are aware, this round of conflict started on 28 February 2026. It has witnessed not only fighting between Israel and the United States on one side and Iran on the other, but also attacks on a number of Gulf states. There have been numerous casualties, including at the leadership level in Iran, as well as destruction of infrastructure in the region,"Jaishankarstated.
"At the very outset, Government had issued a statement on 28th February expressing its deep concern and urging all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritize the safety of civilians. We believe and we continue to believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues. Sir, it is also imperative that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region be respected," he added.
Jaishankar also said that India is concerned about the safety of Indians in the Gulf countries and reached out to the respective governments of these nations regarding this.
"Given the gravity of the situation, the Cabinet Committee of Security (CCS) met on March 1, under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister. It was briefed on the airstrikes in Iran and the subsequent attacks in several Gulf countries. The CCS was concerned over the safety and security of the Indian community in the region," he said.
Giving information about the Indian government's efforts to evacuate Indian students from Iran, Jaishankar said that the Indian embassy facilitated the relocation of several Indian students in Tehran to places outside Tehran.
Also Read:Trump Says Decision to End Iran War Will Be ‘Mutual’ With Netanyahu As Middle East Conflict Enters Day 10
"An advisory update with emergency contact health plans was issued on 3 March...Indian nationals who were in Iran for business reasons were assisted to cross over to Armenia and return home. The embassy in Tehran remains fully operational, in fact on the highest standard," the EAM told the Rajya Sabha.
The External Affairs Minister stated that almost 67,000 of our nationals have crossed international borders to return. "Every effort is being made to bring back our people from West Asia," he added.
During his address, Jaishankar confirmed the death two mariners in the conflict, while one still remains missing.
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
