New Delhi: Tensions in West Asia have increased sharply because of the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar raised concerns about the situation while speaking in the Rajya Sabha. He said India believes that such conflicts should be solved through talks and peaceful discussions.
Jaishankar also shared updates about Indian citizens who are currently in the Middle East. He said the government is helping bring Indians back home safely through Armenia. The government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Speaking about Iran, Jaishankar said he had discussions with Iran’s foreign minister on February 28 and March 5. He said India allowed one of Iran’s three ships in the Indian Ocean to take shelter in India after a request from the Iranian government. Iran has thanked India for this support. He also said India is carefully watching the situation because it could affect energy supplies.
Jaishankar added that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is fully active and on high alert. The embassy has already helped several Indian students move to safer places. Indians who had gone to Iran for business are also being brought back to India through Armenia.
He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the developments in the Middle East. Around one crore Indians live in Gulf countries, so their safety is very important. The Cabinet Committee on Security has also discussed the situation.
Jaishankar said India had already warned its citizens earlier to stay alert. He added that India supports peace and stability in the region and hopes the tensions will reduce soon.