Thousands Of Indians Stranded As US–Iran Conflict Escalates; Govt Issues Emergency Helplines Across Middle East

Embassies activate 24×7 assistance as tensions disrupt travel, airspace and regional security

As tensions escalate in West Asia following US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s counter-attacks, thousands of Indians across the region are facing uncertainty. From students in Iranian universities to passengers stranded at Gulf airports, the conflict has disrupted travel routes and raised serious safety concerns.

The Government of India has activated emergency response mechanisms, with Indian embassies in multiple Middle Eastern countries issuing advisories and setting up 24×7 helplines for medical, security and evacuation assistance.

An estimated 9.6 million Indians reside in the Middle East, making the situation particularly sensitive for families back home.

Spoke with President of the UAE, my brother Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Strongly condemned the attacks on the UAE and condoled the loss of lives in these attacks. India stands in solidarity with the UAE in these difficult times.

Thanked him for taking care of the Indian…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 1, 2026

Spoke with Kuwait FM Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. He briefed on the latest situation in Kuwait. Underlined India’s concern at the escalation. Value his reassurance for the welfare of the Indian community. @MOFAKuwait

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 28, 2026

Just spoke to Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, FM of Saudi Arabia. Exchanged views on the ongoing situation in the Gulf. Underlined India’s stakes in regional peace and stability and in the welfare of Indian community. @FaisalbinFarhan

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 28, 2026

Indian Embassy Emergency Helpline Numbers

Indian nationals in affected countries can contact the following missions:

Israel (Tel Aviv)
+972-54-7520711
+972-54-2428378
Email: [email protected]

Iran (Tehran)
+98-9128109115
+98-9128109109
+98-9128109102
+98-9932179359

UAE (Abu Dhabi)
Toll-free: 800-46342
WhatsApp: +971543090571
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]

Saudi Arabia (Riyadh)
00-966-11-4884697
WhatsApp: 00-966-542126748
Toll-free: 800 247 1234
Email: [email protected]

Qatar (Doha)
+974-55647502
Email: [email protected]

Syria (Damascus)
+963-993385973
Website: eoidamascus.gov.in
Email: [email protected]

Iraq (Baghdad)
+964-771-6511185 (English/Hindi)
+964-770-4444899 (Arabic)
Website: eoibaghdad.gov.in
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]

Palestine (Ramallah)
+970-592916418
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]

Kuwait
+965-65501946
Email: [email protected]

Bahrain
+973-39418071

Oman
Toll-free: 80071234
WhatsApp: +96898282270
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]

Jordan
+962-770-422276

Embassies have urged Indian nationals to follow official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel and remain in contact with local missions.

Airspace Risks And Travel Advisory

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an urgent safety advisory to Indian airlines after reviewing the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s Conflict Zone Information Bulletin (CZIB No.: 2026-03). The advisory warns of heightened risks to civil aviation across Middle Eastern and Persian Gulf airspace.

Several flights have been cancelled or rerouted, impacting passengers across the region.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has advised all Indian nationals — including students, pilgrims, tourists and businesspersons — to leave Iran immediately through available commercial flights or alternative transport, citing the deteriorating security situation.

Diplomatic Outreach Underway

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has spoken with counterparts in Gulf countries, emphasising the need for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, condemning attacks and expressing solidarity. “India stands in solidarity with the UAE in these difficult times,” PM Modi said, highlighting India’s interest in regional peace and the safety of the Indian community abroad.

With hostilities continuing between the US, Israel and Iran, authorities have urged Indian nationals in the region to remain cautious and stay connected with official channels for updates.