Modi’s Diplomatic Push
PM Modi has spoken with leaders of Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain in a series of high-level phone calls. In each conversation, Modi condemned the escalating conflict, reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional peace, and specifically sought assurances for the safety of the Indian community living and working across the Gulf.
India’s Critical Stakes in the Gulf
The Indian government has made it clear it has ‘critical stakes in the Gulf’ and will act firmly in its national interest. Nearly 10 million Indians are employed across Gulf nations, and their remittances form a significant part of India’s foreign exchange earnings. The government has already moved Indian students out of Tehran to safety and is monitoring the situation around the clock.
India’s Neutral Diplomatic Stand
India has maintained its traditional non-aligned stance, calling for immediate dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis. The Ministry of External Affairs urged an ‘early end to the conflict’ while flagging the risk to Indian nationals and trade routes. India has not explicitly condemned either side but has stressed the need for all parties to exercise restraint.
Indian Flights and Commerce Disrupted
Air India Express has resumed flights to Muscat, but several Gulf routes remain suspended. Air India and SpiceJet have cancelled multiple flights amid the Middle East crisis. Indian trade with the Gulf, worth billions of dollars annually, faces disruption as the Strait of Hormuz remains partially restricted and oil prices continue to rise.
The Press of Asia will continue to closely monitor developments in the India-Gulf diplomatic corridor as the conflict evolves.