External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar told Rajya Sabha on March 9, 2026, that India prioritizes peace, urging all sides in the West Asia conflict to embrace dialogue, diplomacy, de-escalation, restraint, and civilian safety.
PM Modi Monitors; 67,000 Indians Evacuated
Jaishankar detailed PM Modi’s close oversight since February 28 US-Israel strikes on Iran, with Cabinet Committee on Security reviewing impacts on 1 crore Gulf Indians and $200B trade/energy security. Missions facilitated 67,000 returns via flights; IRIS Lavan docked in Kochi; advisories issued amid seafarer casualties.
Diplomatic Outreach Amid Challenges
India contacted UAE, Qatar, Saudi, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Israel leaders; Jaishankar spoke twice to Iranian FM Araghchi despite leadership hurdles, advocating sovereignty and integrity. Opposition walkout protested limited discussion, but government stresses stability for diaspora and economy.
