SILIGURI: Union Minister and BJP MP Raju Bista said on Monday that the Centre is closely watching the evolving security situation in the Middle East to ensure the safety of millions of Indian citizens living in the region.“Millions of Indians live in the UAE and the Middle East region. The government of India is monitoring the situation that has developed, and several advisories have been issued by the Government of India… I think the situation will soon move towards restoration of peace. I hope that what is happening stops as soon as possible. Any kind of attack is not appropriate in today’s era. Whatever disputes there are, they should be resolved through dialogue, and India has always been in favor of this,” Bista said, according to news agency ANI.
In view of rising regional tension following the Israel‑US strike on Iran, India has issued advisories for its nationals in Qatar, Turkey and Syria, urging them to remain vigilant and stay in touch with the respective diplomatic missions for assistance.The Embassy of India in Doha announced that regular consular services would remain suspended on March 2 due to the “prevailing security situation.”“ In view of the prevailing security situation, all Indian nationals residing in Qatar are requested to note that regular consular services at the Embassy of India, Doha will remain closed on 2nd March 2026,” the advisory said.It added that emergency services would still be available, stating: “Embassy officials will be available for emergency services related to consular (passport, visa, attestation, etc.) and labour issues,” The Embassy also shared its 24/7 helpline at +974‑55647502 and the email cons.doha@mea.gov.infor urgent assistance, and urged Indian nationals to follow its official social media accounts on Facebook and X for the latest updates.The Consulate General of India in Istanbul likewise issued an advisory after several flights were cancelled or diverted at Istanbul Grand Airport and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport.The statement said the mission is “closely monitoring the situation arising from the cancellation and diversion of flights” at both airports, and remains in “remains in constant communication with the concerned airlines as well as Indian passengers who may be affected.”
