‘Urge all sides to exercise restraint’: India on Middle East situation as US, Israel attack Iran | India News
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New Delhi: India on Saturday expressed deep concern over the conflict in West Asia, which erupted after the US and Israel bombed Iran early in the morning.In the statement, the foreign ministry urged that “dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to reduce tensions and resolve underlying issues”.
“India is deeply concerned by the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region. We call on all parties to exercise restraint, avoid tensions and prioritize the safety of civilians. Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to reduce tensions and resolve underlying issues,” the statement said. The statement further read: “Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected. Our missions in the region are in contact with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate advice to them to remain vigilant, stay in touch with missions and follow local security guidelines.”This comes hours after the Indian embassies issued an advisory urging citizens of both Iran and Israel to “exercise utmost caution and remain alert”. “The State of Israel has launched a premeditated attack against Iran. Defense Minister Israel Katz has declared a special and immediate state of emergency throughout the country,” a ministry statement said.As the situation heated up, sirens blared across Israel and citizens received phone alerts warning of an “extremely serious” threat.The Indian Embassy in Tehran has advised Indian citizens to be cautious and restrict movement.The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv also issued a separate advisory saying, “Given the prevailing security situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to exercise utmost caution and remain alert at all times.”The embassy has urged Indian citizens to strictly follow the security guidelines issued by the Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command, the statement said.Israel and the United States launched a broad daylight attack on Iran on Saturday, closing the window for a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s long-running nuclear standoff with the West.The attack was reportedly carried out near the office of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, the 86-year-old leader was not in Tehran and was being moved to a safe place at the time of the attack.
