India Launches Repatriation Efforts as Middle East Tensions Escalate

In response to escalating conflict in the Middle East after U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has established a special control room to assist Indian nationals residing or travelling in Gulf and West Asian nations. The control room operates daily and has issued multiple helpline numbers to provide real-time information and emergency support, including contacts for Indian embassies across the region.
Given widespread disruptions to international air travel due to the crisis and closure of airspace over parts of the region, the Government of India has coordinated a major repatriation effort. Indian carriers — including Air India and IndiGo — plan to operate 58 special flights on March 4 to help bring back stranded citizens from Gulf hubs. These flights include services to and from key destinations such as Jeddah, Muscat and other points in West Asia.
The initiatives aim to ensure safe and orderly movement for Indian nationals amid the volatile situation, emphasising close coordination between Indian missions, airlines and foreign aviation authorities.