‘Urge all sides to exercise restraint’: India on Middle East situation as US, Israel attack Iran | India News

NEW DELHI: India on Saturday expressed deep concern over the conflict in West Asia, which was triggered after the US and Israel bombed Iran in the early morning.In the statement, the ministry of external affairs urged for “dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues”.

“India is deeply concerned at the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region. We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians. Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues,” the statement read. The statement further read: “Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected. Our Missions in the region are in touch with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate advisories asking them to remain vigilant, stay in contact with the Missions, and follow local security guidance.”This comes hours after Indian embassies issued an advisory urging its citizens in both Iran and Israel to exercise “utmost caution and remain vigilant.” “The State of Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran. Defence minister Israel Katz has declared a special and immediate state of emergency throughout the country,” a ministry statement said.As the situation escalated, sirens sounded across Israel and citizens received phone alerts warning of an “extremely serious” threat.The Embassy of India in Tehran advised Indian nationals to remain cautious and limit movement.The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv also issued a separate advisory stating, “In view of the prevailing security situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to exercise utmost caution and remain vigilant at all times.”The embassy urged Indian nationals to strictly follow safety guidelines issued by Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command, the statement said.Israel and US on Saturday launched a daylight attack on Iran, closing the window for a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s long-running nuclear dispute with the West.The strikes reportedly took place near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, the 86-year-old leader was not in Tehran and had been transferred to a secure location during the attacks.