Middle East conflict: Vivek Oberoi shares note from Dubai, says ‘don't be a bridge for panic’
The Indian government is coordinating with missions abroad to evacuate nationals stranded in the Gulf amid rising Middle East tensions.
While tensions in the Middle East have been rising following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, actor Vivek Oberoi, who is in Dubai, shared a message calling for calm and unity, urging people not to spread panic during the crisis.
In a post on X, a Bollywood actor wrote, “To my extended family in the UAE, I know the headlines can feel heavy right now but remember the foundations of this land are built on peace, resilience, and an incredible spirit of togetherness. Even though we hail from over 200 different nations, we are a part of an incredible community that looks out for each other as one big family. I salute the exceptional leadership of the UAE Government, @modgovae, and the dedicated armed forces of the UAE. Their fearless spirit and tireless defense keep every resident safe and secure, and timely alerts issued by the @NCEMAUAE are our greatest tool for preparedness. The bond between our nations is a bridge of steel, and the safety of every soul here is held in the highest regard. Stay safe, stay indoors as advised, and stay calm.”
“To those back home in India: Let’s keep everyone in our prayers. Don’t be a bridge for panic. Seek the source and only rely on verified media. Choose empathy over all else. The truth will always be the strongest shield we have. Sending peace and light to every home in the Emirates,” he added.
See the post here:
Indians stranded in Middle East
Many Indians are currently in Israel, Iran, and other parts of West Asia, with families at home expressing concern for their safety amid the escalating conflict.
Over the weekend, the United States and Israel carried out coordinated strikes on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior officials. In response, Iran launched drones and missiles targeting Israel, U.S. military bases across the Gulf, and Dubai, a key global business hub.
As tensions rise with new Iranian attacks in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, India is closely monitoring the situation, focusing on the safety of its roughly nine million nationals living in West Asia.
Amid rising tensions in West Asia, the Indian government on Monday said it is coordinating with Indian missions across the Gulf to ensure the safe return of stranded nationals, while state governments are stepping up efforts to assist them, as reported by PTI.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said it is closely monitoring the evolving airspace situation in the region. IndiGo has announced plans to operate 10 special relief flights from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to multiple Indian cities on March 3.
"IndiGo has planned 10 special relief operations from Jeddah to India on 3 March to facilitate the return of stranded passengers, subject to required approvals and prevailing airspace conditions. IndiGo is coordinating with the Consulate General of India at Jeddah for passenger facilitation," the ministry said in a statement.
Since Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken by phone with the leaders of key Gulf nations, including UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, and Bahrain’s King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa.
CCS meeting
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) reviewed the developing situation and highlighted concerns for the security of the large Indian expatriate community in the region. The committee has also instructed all relevant departments to take necessary and feasible steps to assist Indian nationals affected by the ongoing crisis.
Earlier in the day, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said that the Indian government is fully prepared to evacuate Indians stranded in the Gulf and is coordinating with Indian missions abroad to ensure their safety.
He added that talks have been held with senior officials at the relevant embassies to help facilitate the safe return of those impacted by the ongoing conflict.
(With inputs from agencies)
About the Author
Mausam Jha is a journalist who focuses on world affairs and politics. She provides clear, informative reporting with a good understanding of both global events and their local impact. <br><br> Her clear, accessible reporting on political and international issues makes her a trusted source of news and analysis. <br><br> For the past three years, Mausam has worked with Mint, covering national politics, IR—including elections—and global affairs.<br> Before joining her current role, she gained experience working with The Statesman, ANI, and Financial Express, where she honed her skills in political and international news. <br><br> She has consistently tracked key electoral battles, including US elections, Japan elections, policy debates, and strategic affairs, explaining how global currents, from great power competition to regional conflicts <br><br> Beyond journalism, Mausam has a deep engagement with international relations, diplomacy, war studies, terrorism, political history, and political theory. She is particularly interested in the intersection of statecraft and society on how governance, ideology, and institutions shape lived realities, and how politics shape today's world order. <br><br> An avid reader of classical literature and political thought, she constantly explores the connections between historical ideas and contemporary policy challenges.
Wait for it…
Oops! Looks like you have exceeded the limit to bookmark the image. Remove some to bookmark this image.