S. Jaishankar told Parliament on Monday that India supports de-escalation and restraint in the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He said the government is closely monitoring the situation and will protect India’s key interests, including energy security and trade. Jaishankar also confirmed that two Indian sailors have died in the conflict, while another sailor remains missing.

The minister made these remarks during an address about the government’s response to the escalating war involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Conflict Disrupts Oil Supply and Shipping

The war between the United States and Israel against Iran has expanded across the West Asia region. The conflict has already affected several strategic locations. Multiple oil refineries in Gulf countries and oil tankers moving through regional waterways have been targeted in recent attacks.

Shipping activity has also slowed dramatically in the Strait of Hormuz. This route is critical for global energy supply. Nearly 20–25 percent of the world’s seaborne oil and about 20 percent of global natural gas shipments pass through the strait. The disruption has therefore created concern across global markets.

India Prioritises Peace and Safety of Citizens

Jaishankar said India supports peaceful solutions and urges all sides to return to negotiations.

“We advocate de-escalation, restraint, and ensuring the safety of civilians. The wellbeing and security of the Indian community in the region is our priority. And our national interests, including energy security and trade, will always remain paramount,” said Jaishankar.

His statement in Parliament came amid loud protests from Opposition members. Several lawmakers demanded a full debate on the West Asia crisis instead of only a government statement.

Government Reviews Situation at Highest Level

The minister said the government has been actively monitoring the situation since the conflict intensified. He informed Parliament that the Cabinet Committee on Security met on March 1 under the leadership of Narendra Modi.

During the meeting, officials reviewed the possible impact of the conflict on regional stability, global economic activity and the safety of Indians living in the Gulf region.

Jaishankar said that around one crore Indians live in Gulf countries, and the government remains in constant contact with local authorities to ensure their safety.

India’s Three-Step Strategy in West Asia

Jaishankar explained that India’s response to the crisis follows three main principles. First, India supports peace and urges all sides to return to diplomacy and dialogue. Second, the government remains focused on protecting the large Indian community living in the region and continues to coordinate with regional governments for their safety.

Third, India will always prioritise its national interests, including energy security, trade and economic stability.

India Helps Thousands Return Home

Amid the worsening conflict, the government has helped around 67,000 Indians return home. Jaishankar said authorities used several land routes to move Indian nationals to safer locations before arranging flights back to India.

Officials transferred Indians from the UAE to Oman and from Qatar and Bahrain to Saudi Arabia through land crossings. For the final journey to India, the government approved both scheduled and special commercial flights.

“Our diplomats have also worked hard to assist stranded transit passengers in hubs like Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi. They have facilitated international border crossings for Indian nationals including from UAE to Oman and from Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. Wherever there has been a partial opening of airspace, we have approved and undertaken commercial flights, including non-scheduled flights, to enable the return of Indian passengers,” said Jaishankar.