In high-level security meet, PM Narendra Modi directs officials to assist Indians stranded in Middle East conflict zone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to assess the rapidly evolving situation in West Asia following the US-Israeli strikes on Iran and the widening regional escalation.

According to a statement from the Press Information Bureau, the CCS was briefed on the February 28 air strikes and the subsequent developments, including attacks reported across parts of the Gulf. The panel expressed serious concern over the safety and security of the large Indian expatriate community in the region.

“The CCS reviewed the difficulties faced by Indian travellers transiting the region and students appearing for scheduled examinations, as well as the broader implications for regional security and economic and commercial activities. The CCS directed all concerned departments to take necessary and feasible measures to assist Indian nationals affected by the developments. It underscored the importance of an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy,” the PIB said.

India has an estimated 9.6 million nationals living and working in West Asia, including around 10,000 in Iran. With multiple countries shutting their airspace and missile and drone attacks reported across parts of the Gulf, New Delhi is closely monitoring the situation.

The CCS reviewed disruptions faced by Indian travellers transiting through major Gulf hubs, many of whom have been stranded or diverted due to flight suspensions. It also discussed concerns of students scheduled to appear for examinations in affected countries, along with the broader impact on regional security, economic stability and commercial activity.

The committee directed all departments to take “necessary and feasible measures” to assist affected Indian nationals. However, officials indicated that evacuations are not being immediately considered, given widespread airspace closures and the volatile security environment.

The meeting was convened shortly after Modi returned to New Delhi from a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu, where he inaugurated development projects in Madurai. It comes amid heightened diplomatic sensitivity for India.

Days earlier, Modi had travelled to Israel, where he addressed the Knesset and elevated bilateral ties to a Special Strategic Partnership. The visit featured strong public messaging of solidarity. The renewed conflict between Israel and Iran, however, places India in a delicate balancing position as it seeks to maintain strategic ties across the region while safeguarding its diaspora and economic interests.

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued advisories urging Indian nationals in Iran, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE and Palestine to exercise caution, avoid non-essential travel and remain vigilant. Indian missions in Tehran, Tel Aviv, Abu Dhabi and Damascus have activated helplines and remain in continuous contact with nationals.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has spoken separately with his Iranian and Israeli counterparts, conveying India’s “deep concern” and reiterating the need for restraint. In an earlier statement, the MEA said India believes “dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues,” while stressing that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected.

Echoing that stance, the CCS underscored the importance of an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue.