Mounting Toll: 22 Indians Dead in West Asia Violence Including 14 Crew

New Delhi, October 28: Twenty-two Indian nationals have died in the continuing West Asia conflict, among them 14 crew members, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. The announcement was made on Wednesday.

The ministry said it is deeply worried about the fighting in the region. It reiterated that the government is in continuous communication with Indian citizens to safeguard their security and welfare.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing a fortnightly press conference in New Delhi, said the conflict has so far claimed 22 Indian lives, including 14 sailors. He also disclosed that three Indian nationals had died in Saudi Arabia.

"We express serious concern over the ongoing conflict in West Asia," Jaiswal said. "Regrettably, we have lost 22 Indian citizens in this conflict, of whom 14 were sailors. We are trying to remain in touch with the Indian community living there so that every possible step can be taken for their safety and well-being."

Guidelines for Indians in Saudi Arabia

On October 16, India urged its nationals in Saudi Arabia to exercise caution in view of the current circumstances. In case of an aerial attack, they were advised to reach a nearby safe location immediately. The advisory also asked them not to record, publish or share any information, pictures or videos connected to the developments.

The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia had earlier posted on X that the community should take necessary precautions. It advised people to move at once to a secure spot, such as an interior room away from windows, if an air attack takes place.

The embassy further stated that its officials were meeting Indian nationals hospitalised in the country. Officials were also in regular contact with their families and providing required assistance.

India's stance on the attacks

India has reaffirmed its condemnation of attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, describing them as unacceptable. It has also expressed solidarity with efforts to safeguard Saudi Arabia's sovereignty.

Earlier this month, Jaiswal had said he hoped peace and normalcy would return to West Asia soon. He had also said the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia was keeping regular contact with the Indian community and issuing advisories when needed.