The Indian government informed Parliament on Thursday that 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, have been killed in the Middle East conflict since the conflict began this year. The update came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a special security meeting on the West Asia crisis, directing the establishment of a mechanism to assist seafarers and their families.
During the meeting, discussions also covered ensuring uninterrupted fertilizer supply for the upcoming rabi season. The government's strategy to diversify energy sources has mitigated risks effectively, according to the meeting. A whole-of-government approach is being continued to safeguard citizens' interests.
The fatalities include Indians working in the region, with seafarers forming the majority. The government did not provide a breakdown of the deaths by country or specific incidents. The meeting underscores India's efforts to protect its citizens amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.