West Asia conflict: Jaishankar warns of supply chain disruption, urges dialogue to resolve all issues

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday said the developments in West Asia are a “deep cause for concern for all of us,” stressing that India continues to urge restraint and believes dialogue and diplomacy are essential to de-escalate the conflict.

Making a statement in the Upper House amid sloganeering by Opposition members, Jaishankar said the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly.

Jaishankar noted that the conflict has involved fighting between Israel and the United States on one side and Iran on the other, while attacks have also targeted several Gulf states, leading to casualties and damage to infrastructure across the region.

“At the very outset, the government had issued a statement on February 28 expressing its deep concern and urging all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians,” he said.

“We believe, and we continue to believe, that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions,” the minister added.

Jaishankar also underlined that it was imperative that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in the region be respected.

Given the gravity of the situation, the Cabinet Committee on Security met on March 1 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said.

The committee was briefed on the airstrikes in Iran and the subsequent attacks in several Gulf countries and discussed the implications for regional security as well as economic and commercial activities, he said.

Jaishankar said the government is particularly concerned about the safety and security of the large Indian community in the region.

“There are almost one crore Indian citizens who live and work in the Gulf nations. In Iran too, there are a few thousand Indians there for study or employment,” he said.

The minister added that the government has also taken note of difficulties faced by Indian travellers transiting through the region as well as students appearing for scheduled examinations.

“All concerned ministries and departments have been directed to take appropriate measures to respond to this problem,” he said.

The minister highlighted that the Gulf region is also a major trade partner for India, accounting for nearly USD 200 billion annually.

“The House is also aware that in the last decade there has been significant investments from the region into the Indian economy. Therefore, serious supply chain disruptions and the climate of instability that we perceive are serious issues,” he said.

Jaishankar also flagged risks to maritime security, noting that attacks on merchant shipping have affected vessels where Indian nationals often make up a large proportion of the crew.

“We have sadly already lost two Indian mariners and one remains missing in such incidents,” he said.

Jaishankar said the prime minister continues to closely monitor the evolving situation and that relevant ministries are coordinating to ensure effective responses.

The security situation in West Asia remains precarious amid fears of a wider regional conflict.