67,000 Indians Safely Return Amid West Asia Crisis, EAM Jaishankar Reports
Synopsis
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reveals that **67,000 Indian nationals** have returned from conflict zones in **West Asia**. The government is actively facilitating safe returns and ensuring the welfare of its citizens amid escalating regional tensions.
Key Takeaways
67,000 Indian nationals have returned from West Asia.
The Indian government is facilitating safe returns through commercial flights.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran is actively assisting citizens.
PM Modi is in contact with Gulf leaders regarding the situation.
Assurances have been received regarding the safety of the Indian community.
New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) - On Monday, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar disclosed to the Rajya Sabha that 67,000 Indian nationals have successfully returned to India from conflict-ridden regions in West Asia as of March 8. This return is part of the government's ongoing efforts to support its citizens during the current crisis.
In his address to the Upper House regarding the situation in West Asia, EAM Jaishankar stated that the government has been facilitating the return of Indian citizens whenever there have been temporary openings in the regional airspace.
“Whenever there has been a partial opening of airspace, we have sanctioned and operated commercial flights, including non-scheduled ones, to assist in the return of our citizens. As of yesterday, our estimate is that 67,000 of our nationals have returned,” he said.
His comments were made amid significant protests from members of the Opposition, who chanted slogans and called for a comprehensive discussion on the matter during the session.
EAM Jaishankar further mentioned that the Indian Embassy in Tehran has taken measures to assist Indian students and other nationals in Iran, especially as regional tensions have escalated.
“The Indian Embassy has helped relocate several Indian students in Tehran to safer locations,” he noted.
Additionally, he mentioned that Indian nationals present in Iran for business have been supported in exiting the country by traveling to neighboring Armenia before returning to India.
“Indian nationals in Iran engaged in business were facilitated to cross into Armenia to return home. Our Embassy in Tehran remains fully operational and vigilant. We are dedicated to aiding the Indian community during this time,” the minister added.
Jaishankar informed the House that the government has issued several advisories to Indian citizens as the security situation in Iran worsened.
He also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been consistently reviewing developments concerning the conflict and India’s responses to the crisis.
“PM Modi has communicated with the leaders of the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, Israel, and Bahrain. We are urging all parties to de-escalate tensions,” he stated.
He emphasized that India has received positive assurances from these nations regarding the safety and well-being of the Indian community residing there.
“In every instance, we have received guarantees that the welfare of the Indian community will be prioritized by the host nations. I have been in close contact with my counterparts in these countries. Regarding the United States, we have maintained regular communication through diplomatic channels,” EAM Jaishankar concluded.
Point of View
The government's swift actions to facilitate the safe return of citizens from conflict zones underscore its commitment to national welfare. EAM Jaishankar's disclosures provide crucial insights into India's diplomatic engagements and proactive measures during a complex geopolitical crisis.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian nationals have returned from West Asia?
As of March 8, **67,000 Indian nationals** have returned to India from conflict-affected countries in West Asia.
What measures has the Indian government taken for citizens in Iran?
The Indian Embassy in Tehran is actively assisting Indian students and nationals, including facilitating relocations to safer areas.
Who has PM Modi communicated with regarding the crisis?
PM Modi has spoken with the leaders of the **UAE**, **Qatar**, **Saudi Arabia**, **Oman**, **Jordan**, **Israel**, and **Bahrain** to discuss the situation and urge for the de-escalation of tensions.
What assurances has India received from Gulf nations?
India has received guarantees from Gulf leaders that the safety and welfare of the Indian community will be prioritized.
Is the Indian Embassy in Tehran operational?
Yes, the Indian Embassy in Tehran remains fully operational and on high alert to support the Indian community.
