EAM Jaishankar Says National Interest Comes First
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told Parliament that India’s approach to the conflict in West Asia will be guided by national interest, with energy security, trade flows and the safety of Indian citizens in the region remaining central to the government’s response.
Jaishankar Prioritises Energy Security And Trade
Addressing both Houses of Parliament, Jaishankar described the ongoing conflict in West Asia as an issue of particular concern for India. He said the region is critical because of its importance to India’s energy supplies and commercial routes. He made it clear that national interest, including energy security and trade flows, would remain paramount as New Delhi responds to the evolving situation.
Indian Community In West Asia Remains Priority
Jaishankar also said the well-being and security of Indians in the region is a major concern for the government. He noted that the Cabinet Committee on Security had reviewed the situation and taken stock of problems being faced by Indian travellers passing through the region as well as students appearing for examinations there. He added that India has already operated around 100 flights to bring back stranded citizens or those seeking to return home.
India Balances Diplomacy And Strategic Interests
The minister reiterated India’s call for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy while also underlining the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region. He said India had promptly allowed three Iranian naval vessels to seek docking permission at Indian ports on humanitarian grounds, with one of them, IRIS Lavan, docking at Kochi on March 4. At the same time, his statement avoided directly condemning either side in the conflict, reflecting India’s effort to balance diplomatic messaging with strategic interests.
Jaishankar also referred to attacks on merchant shipping, noting that Indian nationals often form a large part of ship crews in the region. His statement underlined the government’s focus on protecting citizens while managing the wider economic and strategic fallout of the conflict.
