Middle East Tensions: PM Modi speaks to Saudi and Bahrain leaders; thanks them for protecting Indian communities

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Saudi Prime Minister, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Bahrain King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and thanked both leaders for their concern for the Indian community amid the instability in West Asia. He also condemned the attack on Saudi Arabia, saying it “violated its sovereignty and territorial integrity.” On February 28, the United States and Israel launched a joint strike against Iran called “Operation Roaring Lion”, which resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Subsequently, the military situation in Iran and the Gulf region continued to escalate.

“I discussed developments in West Asia with His Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. India condemns the recent attack on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which violates its sovereignty and territorial integrity. We agreed that it is crucial to restore peace and stability in the region at the earliest possible date. I appreciate his concern for the welfare of the Indian community in this difficult situation,” he said in a post on X.“I had a productive telephone conversation with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain. India condemned the attack on the Kingdom of Bahrain and expressed its solidarity with its people in this difficult situation. I thank him for his continued support to the Indian community in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” he said in another post on X.Earlier in the day, he discussed the situation in West Asia with Canadian Foreign Minister Mark Carney.“The situation in West Asia is a matter of serious concern to us,” Prime Minister Modi explain. “We will continue to work with countries in West Asia to ensure the safety of Indians there,” he added.Referring to the situation in West Asia, Prime Minister Modi said: “India supports the resolution of all conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.”