The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has reviewed the security situation in West Asia, including the safety of Indian citizens in the region, following recent air strikes in Iran and the subsequent escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was convened against the backdrop of a rapidly deteriorating geopolitical environment after coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28. The strikes have intensified regional conflict and raised global security concerns.

Those present at the high-level meeting included Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

According to an official statement, the Committee was briefed on the February 28 air strikes in Iran and the subsequent escalation, including attacks reported in several Gulf countries.

“The CCS expressed serious concern over the safety and security of the large Indian expatriate community in the region,” the statement said.

The Committee also assessed the challenges faced by Indian travellers transiting through the region, as well as students scheduled to appear for examinations. Broader implications for regional security, economic stability, and commercial activities were also reviewed.

“The CCS directed all concerned departments to take necessary and feasible measures to assist Indian nationals affected by the developments. It underscored the importance of an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy,” the statement added.

India has maintained a balanced approach to the Middle East crisis, advocating de-escalation while prioritising the protection of its citizens and safeguarding its economic interests.

The meeting marks the latest in a series of high-level security reviews as global tensions continue to mount.