Ahmedabad/New Delhi, March 1 (NationPress) Congress Rajya Sabha MP Shaktisinh Gohil has called on both the Union and Gujarat state governments to swiftly implement measures to protect and support the Gujarati community that is facing challenges due to the worsening tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the US, which have resulted in significant disruptions across the Gulf region.

In a video statement, Gohil highlighted the ongoing reports of drone attacks, missile strikes, and air raids affecting Iran, Israel, and Gulf countries like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain, and Qatar. These developments have led to considerable anxiety and difficulties for members of the Gujarati community residing or traveling in those areas.

He stated, "Numerous Gujaratis inhabit the impacted regions. It is imperative for both Central and state authorities to ensure their safety, security, and the safeguarding of their businesses and workplaces."

The recent escalation has caused partial airspace closures and flight cancellations in parts of the Middle East, disrupting essential transit hubs for Indian travelers heading to Europe and North America.

Travelers using Gulf cities have reported being stranded due to the suspension or rerouting of flights.

Gohil shared specific instances, mentioning the case of Pritesh Patel and Hinaben Patel from Nadiad, who reached out to him to report that they were stranded in Kuwait while en route to the US due to a halted connecting flight.

"When flights for Gujaratis bound for America or other destinations are halted in Dubai, Kuwait, or Abu Dhabi, they end up stranded there," Gohil remarked.

He also referenced reports of several Gujarati pilgrims who traveled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and are now trapped at airports.

"We have received videos depicting the hardships faced by these pilgrims. The Union government must act promptly to repatriate Gujarati families," Gohil emphasized.

Additionally, he noted that he had sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar requesting urgent action.

"If our community members wish to return to Gujarat, the officials from both the India and Gujarat governments should facilitate their safe return without charge," he stated.

Until such arrangements are finalized, he suggested that Indian embassies should offer accommodation and meals to the stranded individuals.

"Most nations are providing such assistance for their citizens. Our embassies must do the same immediately," he asserted.

Expressing his concern, Gohil stated, "It is unfortunate that neither the Prime Minister nor Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has made any public statement regarding the safety and welfare of the Gujarati community in the Gulf, despite continuous reports of missile and drone strikes."

He also stressed the enduring commercial connections between Gujarat and the Gulf.

"As a coastal state, Gujarat has longstanding trade relations with Gulf nations. Every day, thousands of small vessels from Kutch, Salaya, Porbandar, and Jamnagar transport goods between Gujarat and Gulf destinations," the Congress MP noted.

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued advisories urging citizens in the Gulf region to exercise caution and maintain contact with Indian missions, as the situation in the Middle East remains under close scrutiny.