Jaishankar says India’s guiding principles are peace, de-escalation and national interests

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha on Monday and outlined India’s approach to the ongoing West Asia conflict, saying the country’s policy is guided by three principles—promoting peace, ensuring the safety of civilians and the Indian community abroad, and safeguarding national interests including energy security and commerce

The minister made the statement in the Upper House amid sloganeering by opposition members

Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge had demanded a short discussion under Rule 176 on India’s energy security in view of the conflict in West Asia before the minister made his statement

Jaishankar informed the House that the government had issued its first official statement on February 20, when the conflict began, urging all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians in the region

He said the Cabinet Committee on Security met on March 1 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review the situation. The committee was briefed on developments in the region and discussed concerns regarding the safety and security of the Indian community as well as the broader implications for regional stability and economic and commercial activities

According to the minister, the committee also reviewed difficulties being faced by Indian travellers transiting through the region and students appearing for examinations there, and directed relevant ministries and departments to take appropriate measures to address the situation

Jaishankar told the House that around one crore Indian citizens live and work in Gulf nations while a few thousand others are based in Iran, underlining the importance of ensuring their safety amid the ongoing conflict

He also noted that the region plays a crucial role in India’s energy security, as several of the country’s major suppliers of oil and gas are located there. The Gulf region is also a major trade partner for India, accounting for nearly $200 billion in annual trade, along with significant investments into the Indian economy over the past decade

The minister said the government had issued advisories for Indians across countries in the region over the past two months and had made efforts to assist citizens who wished to return to India, including those crossing borders to safer locations.

Jaishankar informed the House that the Civil Aviation Ministry had arranged flights from the region, with more than 100 flights operating in the last three days, and that around 67,000 Indian nationals had returned to the country as of Sunday

He also said that Iran had requested permission for three of its vessels to dock at Indian ports, which was granted on March 1, and added that the Iranian vessel Lavan was currently docked in Kochi with its crew being accommodated in Indian Navy facilities, a gesture for which the Iranian foreign minister had conveyed appreciation