New Delhi: Rising Tensions in West Asia Concern Over Indian Nationals
Nearly 10 million Indians living in West Asia may be at increased risk as tensions rise due to military actions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed serious concern over the situation on Monday, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflicts.
The Gulf region hosts a significant Indian community, with around 3.5 million residing in the UAE, about 2.7 million in Saudi Arabia, 1 million in Kuwait, nearly 800,000 in Qatar, around 660,000 in Oman, and approximately 350,000 in Bahrain. Smaller groups can also be found in countries like Jordan, Iraq, and Israel. Notably, Indians make up around 35% of the population in the UAE, making it the largest hub for Indian citizens abroad. This community contributes to a diverse workforce across various sectors, including construction, healthcare, finance, and information technology.
The region is also an essential source of remittances for India. In the financial year 2023-24, the UAE alone contributed nearly 19% of India’s total inward remittances, highlighting how any prolonged instability could have significant economic impacts.
The Cabinet Committee on Security has been monitoring the situation closely, prioritizing the safety of Indian nationals. Following recent airspace closures in Iran, the Iranian government is allowing stranded foreign students, including those from India, to exit via land borders and reschedule their exams.
The military strikes have also raised concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for India and other Asian countries. In response, officials have activated plans to ensure the security of energy supplies in light of the unfolding events.
