UK Convenes 35-Nation Meeting on Hormuz Crisis; India to Participate

New Delhi: Amidst the ongoing Iran-Israel-US conflict in West Asia, the Government of India has initiated a large-scale, safe evacuation of its citizens from Iran. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has extended an invitation to India to participate in a 35-nation dialogue regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. During an inter-ministerial briefing in the national capital, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that over 1,200 Indian citizens have been safely evacuated from Iran so far. Of these, 845 are students.

Jaiswal noted that, out of the total 1,200 Indians, 996 have been sent to Armenia and 204 to Azerbaijan. Working in coordination with Indian missions in both countries and local authorities, the MEA is ensuring the safe return of these citizens. Comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to assist them during their transit.

India Receives Invitation
Meanwhile, the MEA spokesperson informed that the United Kingdom has invited India to join a 35-nation discussion concerning the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, will participate in this meeting virtually.

Students Constitute the Largest Group
Students make up the largest demographic among the evacuated Indians. The government devised a plan to evacuate them via Armenia and Azerbaijan, as direct air routes from Iran to India had been disrupted. The Ministry of External Affairs had activated Indian embassies in both neighboring countries to ensure that the evacuated citizens received immediate assistance and could be repatriated to India.

In parallel developments, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in continuous communication with global leaders. The MEA spokesperson stated that on March 28, PM Modi held a telephonic discussion with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This conversation involved an in-depth discussion regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The Prime Minister condemned the attacks on energy infrastructure in the region, and both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and keeping shipping lanes open and secure.

Over 600,000 Passengers Have Returned
The conflict has now entered its second month. In view of the security situation, there has been a significant surge in the number of passengers returning to India from West Asia. According to statistics, over 600,000 Indian passengers have returned home from the region so far. The government is keeping a vigilant watch on the situation in coordination with all relevant ministries.