New Delhi/Bengaluru, March 2 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs, Pralhad Joshi, has announced that the Central Government is fully equipped to safely repatriate all Kannadigas stranded due to the ongoing Iran–Israel war. He revealed that conversations have already taken place with senior officials at Indian embassies regarding this matter.

Addressing the media on Monday in Delhi, he emphasized that whenever Kannadigas or any Indians encounter trouble globally, the Central Government takes decisive actions to ensure their safe return.

He highlighted the successful evacuation of Indians from Ukraine in the past and reiterated that safeguarding Indians worldwide remains the government's utmost priority.

Joshi mentioned that they are aware of the challenges faced by Kannadigas living abroad due to the escalating situation of the Iran–Israel conflict and that urgent discussions with senior ministers are underway to guarantee their safety.

He reassured that Kannadigas should not feel anxious, as the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is thoroughly prepared to facilitate the safe return of all Indians, not just Kannadigas. He urged families to remain calm, assuring them that their loved ones’ safety is being prioritized.

The minister pointed out that air travel in the war-affected regions has become perilous, and they are seeking expert guidance. He reiterated that the safety of Indians is the government's primary concern, and they are making concerted efforts to rescue all Kannadigas in distress, including Legislative Council member Bhojegowda.

Furthermore, Joshi stated that rescuing Kannadigas stranded in Dubai amidst the Iran–Israel conflict is also a significant focus. He advised against panic, noting that flight operations from Dubai are currently halted, but serious efforts are in progress to ensure the safe return of those stranded.

It is important to note that the Karnataka government has activated its emergency response measures following the closure of airspace by several Middle Eastern nations due to the current regional tensions, which has resulted in numerous international passengers, including Kannadigas, being left stranded.

According to a press release from Revenue Minister and Chairman of the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority, Krishna Byre Gowda, multiple countries have issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), leading to significant disruptions in international flight operations.

The latest advisory from the Ministry of Civil Aviation indicates that the airspace over Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar will remain closed until March 2, Gowda said.

This disruption in air travel has left a significant number of passengers from various nations, including Karnataka, particularly affected in the UAE, especially in Dubai.