Karnataka Deputy CM Appeals For Peace Amid US-Israel-Iran Conflict

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D. K. Shivakumar on Sunday strongly condemned the recent US-Israel strikes on Iran, particularly highlighting an attack on a school that killed several children. Speaking to the media, he called for global peace and urged the United States to halt military operations.

Shivakumar described the targeting of innocent children as “condemnable,” emphasizing that schools should never be caught in conflict zones. He expressed concern for Indian citizens, including Kannadigas, stranded in Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and Dubai, saying, “We will exert whatever pressure is necessary to ensure the safety of citizens and work to instill confidence among Indians and Kannadigas.”

Noting that families of local legislators and citizens are currently stranded abroad, Shivakumar stressed the importance of coordinated protection. “Many South Indians are in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, and there are also numerous Indian educational institutions there. All of them must be protected,” he said. He also urged Kannada organisations overseas to reassure citizens and highlighted that visible airstrikes have caused widespread fear.

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On the issue of helplines for stranded citizens, Shivakumar clarified that the Ministry of External Affairs is responsible, while state authorities can provide reassurance. “There must be peace in the world. It is our prayer that no lives should be lost,” he said, invoking a call for humanity and global harmony. He also noted that the conflict could have broader implications for India, given the large South Indian workforce in the Gulf.

The Deputy Chief Minister detailed the human cost of the strikes, citing that a single bombing killed 70 schoolchildren and left millions living in fear. He underscored that disruptions in key global travel routes, previously through Saudi Arabia and Singapore, have now made international travel increasingly difficult.

Shivakumar concluded by appealing for collective prayers and action for peace, stating, “This is not about Kannadigas or people of any particular state. We are all Indians. Let all of us appeal for peace and humanity.”

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