The Indian government has confirmed that more than 52,000 nationals stranded in the Gulf region have safely returned to India following the partial reopening of airspace across West Asia, amid escalating tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said authorities remain actively engaged with governments in the region to facilitate the safe return of Indians in need of assistance.
In a statement, the MEA emphasized that the safety and welfare of Indian nationals abroad is a top priority. The ministry is continuously monitoring the evolving situation, particularly regarding citizens stranded during transit or on short-duration visits, and has urged them to follow guidelines issued by local authorities and advisories from Indian missions.
Indian embassies and consulates across the Gulf have issued detailed advisories and set up 24x7 helplines to assist stranded nationals. Following the reopening of airspace, Indian and foreign airlines have resumed commercial and non-scheduled flights to facilitate the repatriation of Indian passengers.
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Between March 1 and 7, over 52,000 Indians returned safely, including 32,107 who travelled on Indian carriers. Additional flights are planned in the coming days to ensure all stranded citizens can return home. The MEA advised nationals in countries without active commercial flight operations to contact their local Indian missions for guidance on the nearest available travel options.
The government’s efforts are part of a broader commitment to safeguard Indian citizens amid a precarious security situation in West Asia. The ongoing conflict involves US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, with Tehran responding through attacks on Israeli positions and US military bases in the region.
The MEA reiterated its call for Indian nationals to stay informed, follow official advisories, and exercise caution while travel and security conditions remain volatile. Authorities stressed that coordinated engagement with regional governments will continue to ensure the safe return of citizens until the situation stabilizes.
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