Tensions rise in Middle East, Home Ministry issues alert to countries; Kashmir internet restrictions and security tightened

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs has warned countries that the ongoing conflict in Iran may lead to communal tension, asking authorities to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures.India’s Defense Ministry warned in a letter circulated on February 28 that recent military developments in West Asia could have “knock-on effects” within India, especially if overseas events are cited during religious gatherings or public meetings, news agency PTI reported.

Countries are being asked to keep a close eye on individuals and groups that may trigger unrest. The recommendation specifically calls for monitoring “pro-Iran radical preachers delivering inflammatory sermons” that could inflame public sentiment. The ministry also stressed the need for enhanced intelligence coordination and timely intervention to prevent the law and order situation from deteriorating.The warning comes amid reports that tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply following a joint U.S.-Israeli military strike against Iran. New Delhi has publicly called for restraint while closely monitoring developments and taking into account India’s large presence in the Gulf.Officials said the government is assessing the situation not only from a geopolitical perspective but also from its potential domestic impact, concerned that extremists could exploit international developments to stoke domestic tensions.Precautionary measures have been taken in Jammu and some districts Kashmir. Mobile internet speeds were reduced across the valley on Monday after the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei sparked spontaneous protests, officials said, adding that the step was taken to maintain law and order.Security has been tightened in Srinagar and Ghanta Ghar in Lal Chowk has been cordoned off with roadblocks. Additional police and CRPF personnel were deployed across the city to prevent mass gatherings.Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran during a joint US-Israeli operation. The development sparked protests and mourning in several places, including in parts of India.Demonstrations took place in Lal Chowk, Saida Kadar, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama, officials said. Kashmir’s Shiite population is estimated at around 1.5 million, and some of the largest rallies have taken place in the region.At the same time, conflicts in West Asia continue to intensify. In the days following Khamenei’s killing, the United States and Israel conducted sustained strikes against Iranian targets, focusing on ballistic missile infrastructure and naval assets. Iranian officials say more than 200 people have been killed since the operation began.Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli and U.S. military installations in the Gulf. The strikes also affected major cities in the region, including Riyadh and Dubai.The conflict also began disrupting civil aviation throughout the Gulf. As the strike continues, some airlines have suspended or reduced service. Airports in Dubai, Bahrain and Kuwait also reported strikes or operational disruptions as tensions continued to escalate.