The ongoing conflict in West Asia has prompted several Keralites living in Gulf countries to send their families back home. On Sunday, 92 passengers flew from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, to Kochi, Kerala, arriving at 6 pm. Many of them were transported by buses from Manama, Bahrain, to catch the first chartered flight operated by Gulf Air. Returnees shared photos showing the organized evacuation amid heightened tensions in the region. The move reflects growing anxiety among expatriates in the Gulf over the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict.

Jayasankar Mundancherry, a resident of Bahrain, described the daily routine of air strike sirens and exploding missiles lighting up the night sky. “People rush to balconies with mobile phones whenever alerts sound,” he said, recounting the experience. Despite the tension, he noted that essential supplies and daily facilities in Bahrain have remained largely unaffected. Jayasankar flew back to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with his daughter before boarding the flight to Kerala. The evacuation reflects both caution and preparedness among the Indian community in the Gulf.

Bahrain has faced the brunt of retaliatory strikes due to the US military presence in the country. The US Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain in Juffair serves as headquarters for the US Fifth Fleet and NAVCENT, overseeing operations in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and nearby waters. This strategic base has existed in Bahrain since 1948, hosting thousands of US personnel. Its presence has made Bahrain a focal point in regional tensions, causing worry among expatriates. Indian families in the country are now opting for early evacuation as a precautionary measure.

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Indian nationals in Bahrain, estimated to number around four lakh, have largely remained safe during the escalating conflict. Many returnees mentioned that local authorities are maintaining order, and commercial activities continue despite the occasional alerts. Flights from Dammam to Kerala have become a lifeline for families wanting to reunite with relatives in India. Charter services like Gulf Air are facilitating smooth transport for evacuees. The Indian Embassy has been coordinating with local authorities to ensure safety and support for citizens.

The evacuation trend is expected to continue as long as the conflict in the Middle East persists. Keralites in countries like Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and UAE are actively monitoring the situation to decide whether to leave temporarily. Embassy advisories and chartered flights play a key role in the safe return of families. The situation underscores the impact of regional conflicts on diaspora communities. Citizens traveling back to Kerala are being advised to follow official updates and maintain contact with the Indian consulate for guidance.

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