"We will not abandon our citizens": PM Modi assures safety of Indians in West Asia

KOCHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered reassurance to expatriates concerned about the volatile situation in West Asia, pledging that the government would ensure no Indian stranded in the region is left behind. Speaking at the inauguration of a Rs 10,800 crore development project in Kaloor, he emphasised the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the Indian diaspora.

Acknowledging that anxiety regarding the safety of those working in Gulf and West Asian countries is natural, the Prime Minister affirmed that the BJP-NDA government is fully prepared to facilitate their safe return during crises. "If our citizens are in danger anywhere, we will use all our strength to rescue them and bring them back safely," he stated, adding that, "Today's India will never abandon its citizens in a crisis."

The Prime Minister's words were referring to past rescue missions. He recalled the rescue of nurses trapped in Iraq, the release of Father Tom from the clutches of terrorists in Yemen, and the safe return of Father Alexis Prem Kumar from Afghanistan. He added that the government is currently trying to provide all possible assistance to those caught up in the war.

As of March 8, 2026, approximately 67,000 Indian citizens have returned home safely from the region amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Addressing the Rajya Sabha on Monday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar detailed the government’s response to the crisis, noting that the Indian Embassy in Tehran remains fully operational and is providing necessary assistance to students and other citizens. "Indian nationals who were in Iran for business reasons were assisted to cross over to Armenia and return home," the Minister informed the House, adding that the embassy continues to maintain the highest level of alert.

Highlighting the government's diplomatic efforts, Jaishankar stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in communication with heads of state across the region, including the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, Israel, and Bahrain. "In each case, we received assurances that the well-being of the Indian community would be a priority for the host Government," the Minister noted. Emphasising India's approach, he stated, "India is in favour of peace and urges a return to dialogue and diplomacy. We advocate de-escalation, restraint, and ensuring the safety of civilians." Jaishankar further noted that there are nearly one crore Indians living and working in the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, underscoring the critical importance of regional stability for India's national interests and energy security.