Iran-Israel war: India expresses ‘great anxiety’ over intensification of conflict in West Asia

India expresses deep concern over the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, prioritising the safety of its citizens in the Gulf.

As the conflict in West Asia intensifies, the Ministry of External Affairs, on Tuesday (March 3, 2026), said that India “strongly reiterates its call for dialogue and diplomacy”, and “urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians”.

Noting the rise in intensity of the conflict, the MEA said in a statement, “Unfortunately, in the holy month of Ramadan, the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly and continuously.”

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“In recent days, we have not only witnessed an intensification of the conflict but also its spread to other nations. The destruction and deaths have mounted, even as normal life and economic activities come to a halt. As a proximate neighbour with critical stakes in the security and stability of the region, these developments evoke great anxiety,” it said.

Calling for the safety of Indians in Iran and the Gulf countries, it said, ”There are almost one crore Indian citizens who live and work in the Gulf region. Their safety and well-being is of utmost priority. We cannot be impervious to any development that negatively affects them.”

Regarding the war’s effect on trade and supply chains, the MEA said that India is firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. “Our trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography. Any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy. As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. Already, some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days.”