Middle East Tensions: India Urges Dialogue And Civilian Protection Amid US-Israel Strikes On Iran

India has voiced strong worry over rising Middle East tensions after joint United States and Israel strikes on Iran. The government has urged every stakeholder to choose talks over attacks, stressing that only “dialogue and diplomacy” can ease the stand-off.

The Ministry of External Affairs said India is closely watching Middle East tensions and their impact on Indian citizens in the region. New Delhi called on all parties to protect civilians and avoid moves that could trigger a wider conflict.

Middle East tensions draw Indian advisory for citizens abroad

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Indian Missions across the Gulf and wider Middle East are in constant contact with nationals. Missions have advised Indians to remain alert, follow local security advice, limit movement if needed, and maintain regular contact with consular staff.

Jaiswal underlined India’s diplomatic stand on Middle East tensions, saying, "We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians," Jaiswal said. "Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues. Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected."

Middle East tensions rise after US and Israel strikes on Iran

The current spike in Middle East tensions began when the US and Israel struck Iranian military sites earlier on Saturday. The operation targeted Iranian military infrastructure after talks between Washington and Tehran broke down, with both sides refusing to compromise on key demands.

Reports from the region said the Israeli strikes likely killed Iran's Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour. The deaths have not yet been confirmed by Iranian authorities, but regional media have cited security sources on the incident.

Following the attacks, Iran warned it would hit back, deepening Middle East tensions. Iranian forces have since targeted US bases in Qatar and Kuwait, according to initial reports. Missiles also struck Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, where at least one person died, and Iran aimed fire at Saudi Arabia's Riyadh, though the kingdom has not issued any statement.

The military action has renewed focus on Iran’s nuclear programme, which the US and Israel argue is designed to build nuclear weapons. Iran rejects those charges and insists the programme is for civilian energy and peaceful research, a dispute that has fuelled friction for years.

Regional governments across the Gulf have called for calm as Middle East tensions remain high. European countries, including Germany, France, Switzerland and Italy, are holding emergency meetings and tracking developments closely. They have stressed the need to protect civilian lives and have appealed to all parties to show maximum restraint.