New Delhi: The Centre has informed Parliament that 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, have lost their lives since the outbreak of the conflict in the Middle East in 2026, while 75 others have been injured across multiple countries in the region.
Responding to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said the fatalities were reported from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates. Among the injured, the highest number of cases were reported from the UAE and Oman, followed by Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Israel.
The government clarified that, in a separate incident unrelated to the ongoing conflict, 12 Indian nationals were killed in an accident at the Ras Laffan gas facility in Qatar.
The Ministry of External Affairs said Indian embassies and consulates worked closely with local authorities to facilitate the early repatriation of the mortal remains of those who died. Injured Indian nationals received medical treatment at local hospitals, while diplomatic missions helped families with travel arrangements, regular health updates and other necessary assistance.
The government also highlighted the financial support available to affected seafarers. Under the Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society, the next of kin of seafarers killed in war zone incidents are entitled to an ex gratia compensation of Rs 10 lakh. Additional compensation is also available under collective bargaining agreements through recognised maritime unions.
The Centre further informed Parliament that the Indian Embassy in Tehran has facilitated the evacuation of 2,557 Indian nationals from Iran to Armenia and Azerbaijan since hostilities began in February 2026, enabling their onward travel to India. The government estimates that around 7,000 Indian nationals continue to reside in Iran, including students, workers, fishermen and seafarers.
The Ministry said it has raised concerns regarding Indian medical students affected by the conflict with the Iranian authorities and continues to explore solutions. It has also advised Indian citizens to postpone non essential travel to Iran until the security situation improves.
The government also said it is assisting more than 130 Indian nationals affected by the closure of the Iranian Hospital in Dubai and has taken up the matter with the UAE authorities through diplomatic channels. Separately, it confirmed that it is seeking details from US authorities regarding 30 Indian nationals reportedly arrested during “Operation Checkmate” in Arizona for alleged immigration violations.
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