India, Mar 09 : India has urged restraint and a return to negotiations amid the escalating crisis in West Asia, emphasising the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to ease tensions in the region.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said New Delhi strongly supports de-escalation and peaceful engagement as the conflict continues to intensify.
In his statement, Jaishankar stressed that India remains concerned about the humanitarian consequences of the situation and the need to protect civilian lives.
Safety of Indian citizens remains top priority
The minister said the welfare and safety of the Indian community living across West Asia remains a central concern for the government.
He noted that New Delhi is maintaining close contact with regional governments to ensure the protection of Indian nationals during the crisis.
“Our national interest will always be paramount,” Jaishankar said, adding that India will continue diplomatic engagement with countries in the region to help stabilise the situation.
Energy security and trade concerns in focus
The conflict intensified after military strikes involving the United States and Israel targeting sites in Iran, followed by retaliatory attacks on U.S. military facilities and Israeli targets.
The escalation has triggered volatility in global energy markets, leading to a sharp rise in oil prices.
Jaishankar said the government is carefully monitoring the impact on India’s energy supply and is committed to safeguarding energy security, taking into account availability, price stability and market risks.
He added that Indian diplomacy has been actively supporting domestic energy companies operating in the region to ensure stable supplies.
Protecting Indian consumers during global uncertainty
Highlighting the economic dimension of the crisis, Jaishankar said the government will continue to prioritise the interests of Indian consumers as global markets react to the conflict.
According to the minister, India’s diplomatic efforts will remain focused on maintaining stable energy access while promoting peaceful solutions to the regional crisis.
New Delhi has repeatedly reiterated its position that sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain the most effective path to resolving tensions in West Asia.