On February 28, 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, released an official statement expressing “deep concern” over the escalating military confrontation in the Middle East. The development follows joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which were subsequently met with retaliatory Iranian attacks, significantly intensifying tensions across the region.
As thousands of Indian nationals remain present in affected countries — including travelers, working professionals, students, business delegates, and official assignees — the Government of India has issued clear and specific advisories to ensure their safety and preparedness during this volatile period.
Key Highlights from India’s Official Press Note
The official communication from the MEA outlines four core pillars of India’s position and response:
1. Call for Maximum Restraint
India has strongly urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint. The statement emphasizes the urgent need to:
- Avoid further escalation
- Prevent civilian casualties
- De-escalate military operations
- Ensure humanitarian considerations remain paramount
The Government has made it clear that civilian safety must remain the highest priority, particularly in conflict-sensitive zones across Iran, Israel, and parts of the Gulf region.
2. Emphasis on Dialogue and Diplomacy
India has reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable solutions to resolving the crisis. The official note stresses that:
- Military confrontation will worsen regional instability
- Diplomatic channels must remain open
- Constructive engagement is essential to address underlying geopolitical disputes
India’s stance aligns with its longstanding policy of supporting peaceful conflict resolution and respect for international law.
3. Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity
The MEA statement strongly underscores that:
The sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected.
This principle reflects India’s consistent foreign policy framework advocating non-interference, territorial respect, and peaceful coexistence.
4. Safety of Indian Nationals in the Region
India has confirmed that its missions and embassies across the Middle East are in close and continuous contact with the Indian community. Advisories have been formally issued instructing Indian nationals to:
- Remain vigilant at all times
- Follow local security advisories
- Stay connected with Indian missions
- Avoid non-essential travel
- Monitor official updates
This proactive engagement is crucial as the situation remains fluid and unpredictable.
Specific Advisory for Indian Citizens in Iran, Israel, and Gulf Countries
With thousands of Indians currently residing or traveling in the region, the Government has outlined clear instructions tailored to different categories of citizens.
For Indian Residents and Workers
Indian nationals employed under work permits in countries such as Israel, Iran, and the UAE are advised to:
- Maintain updated registration with the Indian Embassy
- Avoid areas witnessing military or security activity
- Keep emergency contact numbers saved and accessible
- Stock essential supplies where necessary
- Keep identification documents ready
Employers have also been advised to cooperate in ensuring worker safety.
For Indian Students
Students enrolled in universities across the region are instructed to:
- Stay within campus premises when possible
- Follow university safety protocols
- Avoid public gatherings and demonstrations
- Keep regular communication with family and embassy officials
Embassies are closely coordinating with educational institutions to monitor student safety.
For Indian Travelers and Tourists
Indian tourists currently in the Middle East are strongly advised to:
- Reassess travel plans immediately
- Avoid intercity movement
- Stay indoors during security alerts
- Remain updated through official embassy channels
Those planning travel to affected areas are advised to postpone non-essential visits until further notice.
Emergency Contact Details for Indian Nationals
Indian missions have activated emergency helplines for immediate assistance:
- Israel: +972-54-7520711
- Iran: +989128109115
- United Arab Emirates: +971-50-4406181
These lines are operational for emergency coordination, safety guidance, and urgent evacuation support if required.
Aviation Disruptions and Flight Suspensions
The military escalation has directly impacted international aviation routes.
Indian Airlines Suspend Operations
Major Indian carriers including Air India and IndiGo have temporarily suspended flights to several Middle Eastern destinations due to:
- Airspace closures
- Missile interception risks
- Regional security advisories
On March 1, 2026, over 444 international flights were reportedly cancelled following sudden airspace restrictions across the conflict corridor.
Passengers are advised to:
- Contact airlines directly for rescheduling
- Avoid airport travel without confirmed booking updates
- Monitor DGCA and airline notifications
Travel Alert: “Utmost Caution” Advisory
India has formally issued a “Utmost Caution” Travel Advisory for its nationals in Iran and Israel. In earlier communications, Indian citizens in Iran were urged to leave “at the earliest by available means” where feasible.
Current travel guidance includes:
- Avoid border regions
- Avoid military-sensitive infrastructure zones
- Refrain from posting sensitive content on social media
- Carry embassy contact details at all times
Regional Impact on Indian Diaspora
The Middle East hosts a significant Indian diaspora across sectors including:
- Construction and infrastructure
- Healthcare
- IT and engineering
- Hospitality and tourism
- Oil and energy
Any escalation may affect:
- Employment continuity
- Visa status
- Remittance flows
- Travel logistics
The Government is closely monitoring developments to safeguard economic and human interests of Indian citizens abroad.
India’s Strategic Diplomatic Position
India’s statement reflects a calibrated diplomatic posture that:
- Avoids alignment with military escalation
- Advocates sovereign respect
- Prioritizes citizen safety
- Encourages de-escalation
India maintains strong bilateral relations with countries across the Middle East, making its balanced response diplomatically significant.
What Indian Citizens Should Do Immediately
To ensure personal safety, all Indian nationals in the affected region should:
- Register with the nearest Indian Embassy immediately
- Subscribe to official MEA updates
- Maintain emergency funds and documents
- Inform family members about current location
- Avoid rumors and rely only on official sources
Where to Access Official Updates
Citizens are strongly encouraged to monitor:
- Official website of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
- Embassy social media channels
- Verified government press releases
Avoid relying on unverified news or social media speculation.
Conclusion: India’s Firm Yet Balanced Response
India’s February 28, 2026 press note reflects a strong, clear, and responsible diplomatic stance amid rising Middle East tensions. By emphasizing restraint, diplomacy, sovereignty, and citizen safety, the Government has positioned itself as a stabilizing voice while ensuring protective measures for its nationals.
With evolving developments across Iran, Israel, and neighboring Gulf states, vigilance remains essential. Indian citizens in the region must strictly follow official advisories and remain in close contact with diplomatic missions.
The situation remains dynamic, and further updates are expected as regional developments unfold.