22 Indians Killed in West Asia War, Says MEA
India has confirmed that 22 of its nationals, including 14 seafarers, have been killed in the ongoing West Asia conflict since February 2026. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) disclosed the figures on Wednesday, October 28, expressing serious concern over escalating hostilities and attacks on civilian infrastructure, energy facilities and commercial shipping routes across the region.
MEA Confirms 22 Indian Deaths in West Asia Conflict
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said 14 of the 22 Indian fatalities involved maritime workers, highlighting the risks faced by Indian nationals employed aboard commercial vessels.
Three Indians have also been killed in Saudi Arabia during the conflict.
Jaiswal said Indian diplomatic missions remained in close contact with Indian communities across the Gulf to support their safety and welfare.
The conflict began on February 28 following military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran.
Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia Raise Concerns
India has condemned recent attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement on Saudi Arabia’s civilian and energy infrastructure.
The attacks included strikes targeting the kingdom’s East-West oil pipeline, which transports crude oil towards Red Sea export terminals.
The pipeline has become particularly important as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have affected regional energy transportation.
New Delhi warned that continued attacks could further threaten regional stability and international shipping.
India Calls for Protection of Seafarers and Shipping
India has repeatedly called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the West Asia conflict while emphasising the safety of commercial vessels and their crews.
The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, remains a major concern because of escalating maritime security threats.
In September, India and Liberia launched a 25-nation initiative at the United Nations to strengthen the protection of shipping and seafarers.
The government continues monitoring developments across the region.
