Middle East Crisis: 1 Crore Indians at Risk as Flights Suspended

New Delhi: The Middle East remains tense after joint US–Israel strikes on Iran. With flight operations suspended in several areas, millions of Indians — including workers, students and tourists — are stranded across the region. Many have taken to social media urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to arrange safe evacuation.

An Indian worker in Dubai said he came to earn his livelihood but is now searching for bomb shelters, requesting the Government of India to evacuate them. Tourists are reportedly stranded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. MBA and medical students have also posted urgent appeals online.

Nearly 2,000 Kashmiri students are currently stuck in Iran. The Jammu and Kashmir Students’ Association has written to PM Narendra Modi seeking immediate assistance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the situation as “deeply concerning.” The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued emergency helpline numbers for Indians in affected countries and said it is closely monitoring developments. The government has urged all sides to exercise restraint.

Approximately 10 million (1 crore) Indians live in the Middle East. The country-wise numbers are: UAE – 3.5 million; Saudi Arabia – 2.7 million; Kuwait – 1 million; Qatar – 0.8 million; Oman – 0.66 million; Bahrain – 0.35 million. Indians make up nearly 35% of the UAE’s total population.

With air travel disruptions and rising tensions, concern is growing over the safety of Indian nationals across the Gulf region. Authorities have advised Indians to stay in contact with local embassies and follow official updates.