US-Israel Strikes on Iran: India Calls for Calm, Urges Restraint & Diplomacy as Middle East Tensions Escalate
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Tensions in the Middle East have sharply increased after coordinated US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran. In response, the Indian government has called for calm and urged all sides to avoid further escalation.
On February 28th, the United States and Israel launched massive airstrikes on more than 500 targets across Iran, including nuclear facilities and key military sites. Reports also claimed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the strikes which is now going to be a dramatic turning point in the region’s politics.
Iran retaliated swiftly with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US bases across the Gulf, including in Bahrain, Qatar and other neighbouring countries.
Amid these events, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over the situation in Iran and the Gulf region.
“We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians,” the government said.
“Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues. Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected. Our Missions in the region are in touch with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate advisories asking them to remain vigilant, stay in contact with the Missions, and follow local security guidance.” the statement further added.
For India, the stakes are high. The country relies heavily on energy imports from the Gulf and maintains strategic ties with both the United States and Israel, while also having longstanding economic and connectivity interests involving Iran. Any prolonged instability could impact oil prices, shipping routes and regional security.
The conflict has already triggered global anxiety. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have promised a “crushing response,” while air raid sirens have sounded across parts of Israel. Several Gulf states reportedly intercepted incoming missiles. Analysts warn that the situation could spiral further, especially if regional proxy groups become involved.
What Was “Operation Genesis” and How Did Iran Respond?
Israel’s military operation, called “Operation Genesis,” was one of the largest air assaults in recent years. Around 200 fighter jets were involved in the attack, dropping dozens of bombs on key targets in Tehran, including the complex linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader. The strikes also focused on destroying Iran’s air defence systems and missile launch sites to ensure control of the skies.
At the same time, the United States carried out strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities even those monitored under international safeguards. Washington demanded that Iran stop enriching uranium, scale back its missile programme, and end support for regional groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis. Satellite images later showed heavy destruction in parts of Tehran. In response to the deaths and damage, Iran announced 40 days of national mourning.
The situation has since intensified. Air raid sirens sounded across parts of Israel as Iran launched missiles and drones in retaliation. Several Gulf countries intercepted incoming missiles, though injuries were reported.