External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar  briefed the Rajya Sabha about the rising conflict in West Asia after recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran triggered a wider regional crisis. He said the Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to protect Indian interests in the region.

Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally keeping a close watch on the developments. He added that several ministries are coordinating with each other to ensure that India is prepared to respond to any impact of the conflict.

Government monitoring situation closely

Jaishankar told Parliament that the government had already expressed concern about rising tensions before the conflict escalated. According to him, India issued a statement on February 20 urging all sides to show restraint and avoid further escalation.

The war began on February 28 after joint US-Israeli strikes targeted Iran. The attack reportedly killed former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with several senior members of Iran’s leadership. Since then, the conflict has intensified with reports of attacks on oil depots and water desalination plants across the region.

The minister said the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been actively reviewing the situation. The committee is particularly concerned about the safety of Indians living in the region and those travelling there.

India calls for dialogue and diplomacy

Jaishankar stressed that India continues to believe that dialogue and diplomacy are the best ways to reduce tensions. He warned that the situation in West Asia has worsened and is now affecting other countries in the region.

He also informed Parliament that all ministries have been asked to take necessary measures to deal with any challenges arising from the conflict.