West Asia Conflict Creates Unforeseen Challenges for India: PM

New Delhi (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Lok Sabha on Monday that the ongoing West Asia conflict presents significant challenges for India, specifically impacting trade, the economy, and the safety of Indians living in Gulf nations.

“The current situation in West Asia worries us,” the Prime Minister stated during his address. He noted that while External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri previously briefed the House, the crisis has now escalated beyond three weeks. He warned that the conflict’s adverse effects now reach the global economy and individual lives, prompting the world to urge all parties toward an early solution.

The Prime Minister outlined how the tensions create multifaceted economic, national security, and humanitarian hurdles. “India maintains extensive trade relations with the countries at war and those the conflict affects,” he said. He further explained that the war zone serves as a vital trade route and provides a large portion of India’s crude oil and gas requirements.

He also highlighted the human stakes, noting that approximately one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, while many others serve as crew members on commercial ships. “For these reasons, India naturally feels greater concern,” he added.

Regarding the government’s response, PM Modi assured the House that the Centre provides necessary assistance to every Indian in the affected region. “I have personally spoken with the heads of state of most West Asian countries in two rounds of calls,” he said, adding that these leaders guaranteed the full safety of Indian citizens.

While acknowledging that some citizens have tragically lost their lives or sustained injuries, the Prime Minister confirmed that the government provides families with support and ensures the best possible treatment for the wounded. “Our missions in these countries continuously help our workers and tourists,” he stated. He concluded by reaffirming that the safety and security of Indians, both at home and abroad, remains the government’s top priority.