NEW DELHI: Indian embassies and consulates across the Gulf and West Asia region continue to operate round-the-clock helplines and emergency assistance services as New Delhi closely monitors developments affecting the safety and welfare of Indian nationals. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated its commitment to supporting the large Indian diaspora in the region during an inter-ministerial briefing held in the national capital.

Addressing the media, Mr Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) at the MEA, said the government remains focused on ensuring the security and well-being of Indian citizens while maintaining close coordination with local authorities. He noted that Indian diplomatic missions are actively assisting nationals across the region and remain in constant contact with host governments to address emerging concerns and facilitate necessary support.

Mr Mahajan highlighted that the overall aviation situation has steadily improved, with additional flights operating between Gulf destinations and various Indian cities. He confirmed that airspace in the United Arab Emirates remains fully open and that both Indian and UAE carriers are maintaining services to multiple destinations across India. Flights from Saudi Arabia and Oman are also functioning normally, helping ease travel concerns for Indian nationals and residents seeking to return home.

The MEA further indicated that airspace accessibility has improved across much of the region. Qatar's airspace is partially open, while Kuwait and Bahrain continue to operate normally. Iraq's airspace remains open with limited flight services that can be used for onward travel to India. These developments have provided additional travel options at a time when regional security concerns continue to influence aviation operations.

The government has also continued to advise Indian nationals against travelling to Iran and has encouraged those currently in the country to depart with assistance from the Indian Embassy in Tehran. According to Mr Mahajan, the embassy has already facilitated the movement of 2,557 Indian citizens out of Iran through land-border routes, reflecting a sustained evacuation and support effort undertaken in response to evolving regional circumstances.

Israel's airspace, he added, remains open, although flight operations in the broader region continue to be limited. The security environment has remained volatile since the outbreak of the US-Israel-Iran conflict earlier this year, with several Gulf nations reporting repeated missile and drone incidents targeting their territories.

The continuing tensions have already affected Indian nationals in the region. Earlier in May, three Indian citizens were injured in the UAE amid the ongoing conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the attack, describing the targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure as unacceptable. New Delhi has since maintained a high level of vigilance, with diplomatic missions working closely with local authorities to provide assistance and ensure that Indian citizens remain informed, protected and supported during a period of heightened uncertainty across West Asia.