India Flags Safety of Citizens as Jaishankar Briefs Rajya Sabha on Escalating West Asia Crisis

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Monday briefed the Rajya Sabha on the rapidly evolving crisis in West Asia, informing lawmakers that the government is closely monitoring developments amid rising regional tensions.

Addressing the Upper House of Parliament, the External Affairs Minister said the situation had been discussed at the highest level of government due to its seriousness. He revealed that the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened a meeting on March 1 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar told the House that the committee was briefed on recent military developments in the region, including airstrikes in Iran and subsequent attacks reported in several countries across the Gulf region.

“Given the gravity of the situation, the Cabinet Committee on Security 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,” Jaishankar said during his statement in parliament.

The minister added that the government was particularly concerned about the safety and security of the large Indian diaspora living and working across West Asia.

“The CCS was concerned over the safety and security of the Indian community in the region,” he noted, underscoring the government’s focus on monitoring the welfare of Indian nationals amid the escalating tensions.

West Asia hosts millions of Indian workers and professionals, making stability in the region a key strategic concern for New Delhi. The government has previously conducted large-scale evacuation missions during conflicts in the region, highlighting the importance of preparedness during crises.

Jaishankar assured members of Parliament that Indian authorities are maintaining a close watch on the situation and are in touch with relevant stakeholders to safeguard national interests and the well-being of Indian citizens abroad.

The developments come amid heightened geopolitical tensions following military exchanges and retaliatory actions reported in parts of West Asia, raising concerns about the potential for a wider regional escalation.

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