New Delhi, March 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in separate phone calls with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa amid the escalating Middle Eastern conflict. During these conversations, the Prime Minister strongly condemned the recent attacks targeting both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and expressed deep concern for the safety of the substantial Indian community living in these nations. His inquiries underscored India's commitment to safeguarding its citizens in the midst of the regional unrest.

These calls are part of Prime Minister Modi’s continued diplomatic efforts following the recent flare-up of tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. On Sunday, he had spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where he reiterated India's call for an immediate end to hostilities in the region and for the restoration of peace. In the same vein, PM Modi also conversed with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, condemning Iranian attacks on Gulf countries, urging de-escalation, and appreciating the UAE's efforts to ensure the safety of the Indian expatriates there.

The series of diplomatic talks highlights India's consistent stance in pushing for stability in the Middle East and prioritizing the protection of its citizens abroad. These high-level engagements followed a key review by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by PM Modi, on Sunday. During the meeting, the CCS was briefed on the airstrikes in Iran on February 28 and the resulting retaliatory actions across Gulf countries. The committee expressed grave concern over the safety of the Indian diaspora in the region, particularly in light of the mounting violence. It also reviewed the challenges faced by Indian nationals traveling through the area, students sitting for exams, and the broader consequences for regional security and economic activities.

The CCS instructed relevant departments to take immediate and necessary actions to assist affected Indian citizens. It emphasized the need for an immediate halt to hostilities and for the resumption of dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.