As the US-Israel war on Iran enters its fifth day, India has launched emergency evacuation operations to bring back thousands of Indian citizens stranded across the Middle East. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to discuss the situation.
PM Modi assured the nation: “India will ensure the safe return of all its citizens. We are working with all countries to protect our people.”
Over 9 million Indians live and work in the Gulf region, particularly in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain. The escalating conflict and closed airspace have left thousands stranded, with many unable to return home.
Operation Sindhu 2.0:
India has activated its emergency evacuation protocol, reminiscent of the 2015 Operation Raahat in Yemen. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has set up a 24/7 helpline and emergency control rooms across Indian embassies in the Gulf.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Air India are on standby to operate evacuation flights as soon as airspace clearance is obtained. The Indian Navy has also deployed vessels in the Arabian Sea to assist in maritime evacuation if needed.
State-wise Impact:
Kerala has the highest concentration of Indian workers in the Gulf, with over 2.5 million Keralites employed there. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written to PM Modi urging urgent evacuation measures. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh also have large Gulf diaspora populations.
Indian Embassies in Action:
- UAE: Over 3.5 million Indians registered for evacuation
- Saudi Arabia: Emergency registration portal activated
- Kuwait: Indian embassy setting up safe houses
- Oman: Coordination with Indian Navy underway
Remittances at Risk:
India received $120 billion in remittances in 2025, with the Gulf region accounting for nearly 40%. Any prolonged conflict threatening Indian workers in the Gulf could have significant economic consequences.
India has maintained a carefully neutral stance on the conflict, calling for peace while prioritizing the safety of its citizens. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has spoken with counterparts in Iran, UAE, and the US to facilitate safe passage for Indians.