New Delhi (India) March 3:Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanged words with the Sultan of Oman and the Crown Prince of Kuwait on Tuesday, the Prime Minister's office said, referring to the ongoingGulf conflict. 

Concerns Raised Over Attacks in Gulf Nations

Each of the conversations also covered the Indian community. The Prime Minister conveyed his concern about the attacks in both countries and talked about the welfare and security of the Indian community living there.
“During both discussions, the Prime Minister expressed concern at the attacks in the respective countries and discussed the welfare and security of the Indian community,” the PMO said.

Govt Monitors Situation, Coordinates Globally

The ministry said the government is closely watching the situation as it unfolds and has contacted local governments and key international partners. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar have been speaking with their counterparts to assess developments and coordinate efforts.
“The Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister have held discussions with their counterparts. The government will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and take relevant decisions in the national interest,” the MEA said.

Embassies Aid Stranded Indians, Issue Alerts

The MEA added that the Indian Embassies and Consulates in the affected countries are keeping close contact with Indian nationals and community organisations, and issuing regular advisories as necessary.
“They have also extended all possible help to those stranded by the conflict. The Embassies and Consulates will continue to be proactive in addressing various consular aspects of this conflict,” it said.

MEA: Conflict Worsens in Holy Month of Ramadan

In a statement, the MEA pointed out the conflict had become more intense.
The Ministry said, “Unfortunately, in the holy month of Ramadan , the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly and continuously.”
“In recent days, we have not only witnessed an intensification of the conflict but also its spread to other nations. The destruction and deaths have mounted, even as normal life and economic activities come to a halt. As a proximate neighbour with critical stakes in the security and stability of the region, these developments evoke great anxiety,” it added.

Trade, Energy Chains at Risk for India

India is also concerned about several other aspects besides the safety of its citizens. The MEA mentioned that there would be serious repercussions for trade and energy supply chains and that if there were disruptions in the Gulf region, it would be a big blow to India's economy.
The statement said, “Our trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography. Any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy. As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. Already, some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days.”