PM Modi Calls West Asia Crisis ‘Worrisome’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the rapidly escalating crisis in West Asia as “deeply worrisome” and assured that the Government of India stands ready to evacuate Indian citizens if the security situation deteriorates further. His remarks come amid intensifying hostilities linked to the ongoing Iran–Israel War, which has triggered missile exchanges, airspace closures and widespread instability across parts of the Middle East.

Addressing the media after high-level discussions in New Delhi, the Prime Minister said India is closely monitoring developments on a real-time basis. He stressed that the safety, security and well-being of every Indian abroad is the government’s foremost priority. “The situation in West Asia is deeply worrisome. We are in constant touch with our missions in the region and with community representatives. If required, India is fully prepared to undertake evacuation operations,” he said.

Modi underscored that India believes the crisis must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than further military escalation. Calling for restraint from all sides, he reiterated India’s long-standing position that stability in West Asia is vital not only for regional peace but also for global economic security, energy markets and the safety of millions of expatriate workers.

According to official estimates, millions of Indians live and work across Gulf countries and other parts of West Asia, forming one of the largest expatriate communities in the world. In recent days, missile strikes, drone attacks and precautionary blackouts have disrupted normal life in several cities. Flights have been cancelled due to airspace restrictions, communication networks have been intermittently affected, and labour camps housing thousands of migrant workers have reported heightened anxiety.

Government sources indicated that the Ministry of External Affairs has activated control rooms and emergency helplines to assist Indian nationals. Indian embassies and consulates have been instructed to remain on high alert, coordinate with local authorities, and prepare contingency plans. Lessons from past evacuation missions — including large-scale airlifts conducted during earlier West Asian crises — are reportedly being reviewed to ensure swift action if needed.

The Prime Minister’s statement also comes against the backdrop of growing concern among families back home, particularly in states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where a significant number of residents work in the Gulf. Many had been preparing to travel to India for upcoming festivals but now find themselves stranded due to flight suspensions and security restrictions.

While no immediate evacuation order has been announced, officials clarified that India is prepared to act at short notice depending on ground realities. “All necessary steps will be taken to safeguard our citizens,” Modi said, adding that India will continue engaging with international partners to support de-escalation efforts.

As the conflict continues to unfold, India’s dual focus remains clear: pushing for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation, while simultaneously ensuring that its nationals abroad are protected and, if required, brought home safely.