New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha on the escalating conflict in West Asia, outlining its potential impact on India’s economy, energy supplies, global trade routes and citizens living in the Gulf region. The Prime Minister described the situation as alarming and said the government is closely monitoring developments while coordinating efforts across ministries.
During his address, Modi stressed that disruptions in international waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable, highlighting the strategic importance of the route for India’s energy imports. A large share of the country’s crude oil, natural gas and fertiliser shipments pass through the strait, making uninterrupted maritime movement essential for supply stability.
The Prime Minister said the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has created economic, security and humanitarian challenges for India. According to him, global markets have already begun to feel the impact, and the government is working to minimise disruptions to domestic supply chains.
Modi also highlighted concerns for the large Indian diaspora in the Gulf region, noting that nearly one crore Indians live and work across these countries. He said the government has taken extensive measures to ensure their safety and assistance during the crisis.
Emphasising the priority given to citizen safety, the Prime Minister said round the clock control rooms and emergency helplines have been set up both in India and in affected countries. Since the conflict began, more than 3.75 lakh Indians have returned home safely, including about 1,000 citizens evacuated from Iran, among them over 700 medical students.
To manage the broader economic impact, an inter ministerial group has been reviewing developments daily, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, trade, fertilisers, shipping and power. The Prime Minister said India currently has adequate reserves of food, fertilisers and coal to maintain stability in supply and electricity generation.
Reiterating India’s position on the crisis, Modi stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolving the conflict and restoring stability in the region.
