MEA launches helpline as Iran-US-Israel tensions rise
India on Wednesday established a special control room in New Delhi to assist its citizens amid escalating military exchanges between the United States, Israel and Iran. The move comes after US-Israel strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks by Tehran across parts of the Gulf.
The facility has been set up at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (IST). According to officials, Indian nationals can contact the control room via toll-free number 1800118797 or landlines 91-11-23012113, 91-11-23014104 and 91-11-23017905.
Emergency embassy contacts have also been issued for countries including Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel and the United Arab Emirates.
Retaliatory strikes widen crisis
Iran’s retaliatory strikes have reportedly spanned multiple countries, with missiles and drones intercepted over Kuwait, Bahrain and the UAE. Several Gulf nations temporarily shut their airspace amid the attacks, and both military and civilian casualties have been reported.
The confrontation has escalated into one of the most intense face-offs between Washington and Tehran in decades, with US forces launching counter-strikes, including naval operations.
CCS reviews security situation
Earlier this week, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was briefed on the February 28 air strikes in Iran and the subsequent escalation across the Middle East.
According to an official statement, the Committee expressed serious concern over the safety and security of the large Indian expatriate community in the region. Millions of Indians live and work in Gulf countries, making stability in West Asia a key national priority.
India calls for peace, diplomacy
On Monday, PM Modi reiterated India’s position on global conflicts, emphasising dialogue and diplomacy as the preferred path forward.
“India’s stance on the several ongoing tensions around the world is firm. We have always called for maintaining peace and stability, and when two democracies stand together, the voice for peace becomes even stronger,” he said.
Addressing the West Asia crisis, he added, “The current situation in West Asia is a matter of deep concern for us. India supports the resolution of all disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. To ensure the safety of all Indian nations, we will continue to work closely with all countries in the region.”
With tensions continuing to rise, the government said it remains in close coordination with Indian missions abroad to monitor developments and provide assistance where required.
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