Massive Evacuation Effort: Over 2.2 Lakh Indians Return from West Asia Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a significant operation, India has successfully facilitated the return of approximately 2.2 lakh passengers from the West Asia and Gulf region since February 28, 2026. This evacuation drive comes as widespread airspace disruptions continue due to the escalating conflict in the area, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) prioritizing the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad.
Focus on Iran: 550 Indians Safely Cross Borders with Embassy Assistance
Among those evacuated, around 550 Indian citizens have been assisted in crossing from Iran into neighboring countries. Specifically, the Indian Embassy in Tehran coordinated the safe passage of these individuals into Armenia via land borders, with an additional 90 nationals entering Azerbaijan through another crossing point. The group included 284 pilgrims who had traveled to Iran, some of whom have already returned to India, while others are expected to follow in the coming days.
Critical Advisory Issued: The MEA has issued a stern warning, advising Indian citizens currently in Iran not to attempt crossing any land borders for onward travel without prior and explicit coordination with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. This directive aims to prevent risks and ensure orderly evacuations amidst the volatile situation.
Flight Operations and Airspace Challenges
Addressing the media, Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf), highlighted that flight operations to India are ongoing from several regional airports despite partial airspace closures in parts of West Asia. Flights are currently operating from multiple airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to Indian destinations. Additionally, Qatar's airspace has partially reopened, with Qatar Airways expected to operate flights to India over the next two days.
However, challenges persist as airspace in Kuwait has remained closed since February 28. To mitigate this, special non-scheduled commercial flights by Jazeera Airways are anticipated to operate from Al Qaisumah International Airport in Saudi Arabia to India. For stranded Indians in countries like Bahrain and Iraq, where flights remain suspended, alternative travel arrangements are being facilitated through transit via Saudi Arabia.
Embassy Efforts and International Cooperation
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has remained fully operational under challenging circumstances, relocating several Indian students from areas outside the capital to safer locations within Iran. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed gratitude towards the government and people of Armenia for their support in the evacuation efforts. In a post on X, he stated, "Thank the government and the people of Armenia for facilitating the safe evacuation of over 550 Indian nationals from Iran so far. Appreciate their support in these challenging times."
Tragic Incidents and Ongoing Assistance
Amid the evacuations, the MEA confirmed that two Indian nationals were killed in an attack in Sohar city, Oman, on March 13. The Embassy of India in Muscat is in constant touch with the families of the deceased and is coordinating with Omani authorities for the repatriation of their mortal remains. Additionally, the embassy is monitoring the condition of injured Indians from the incident, though none are reported to be critically hurt.
In Iraq, Indian officials are assisting 15 crew members of the vessel Safesea Vishnu, who were safely evacuated and are currently staying at a hotel in Basra. The mission is coordinating with Iraqi authorities for their early return to India and for the repatriation of the mortal remains of a deceased Indian national.
Key Points to Remember:
- Over 2.2 lakh Indians have returned from West Asia since February 28, 2026.
- 550 Indians evacuated from Iran with embassy help, crossing into Armenia and Azerbaijan.
- MEA advises against unauthorized border crossings from Iran.
- Flight operations continue from Saudi Arabia, Oman, and partially from Qatar.
- Airspace in Kuwait remains closed; alternative arrangements are in place.
- Two Indian nationals killed in Oman; embassy assisting with repatriation.
- Indian missions remain active, providing support to stranded citizens across the region.
This comprehensive evacuation effort underscores India's commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad during international crises, with continuous coordination and diplomatic engagements ensuring their safe return home.
