India wants dialogue and respect for territorial integrity to end west asian conflict: Jaishankar

Indian External Affairs Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar today said New Delhi advocates de-escalation , return to dialogue and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries to end the widening West Asia conflict.

Making a suo motu statement in the Rajya Sabha, upper house of parliament on the West Asian crisis, he said "India is in favour of peace and urges a return to dialogue and diplomacy. 

"We advocate de-escalation, restraint, and ensuring the safety of civilians," he said, adding 'the wellbeing and security of the Indian community in the region is our priority. And our national interests, including energy security and trade, will always remain paramount," Jaishankar said.

India, he said, has expressed deep concern at the outset and urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritise civilian safety, stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolve the crisis while respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region.

Amid opposition MPs staging a walkout of the House after they vociferously put across their demand for a discussion on the issue, the minister said the government is closely monitoring the escalating conflict and has taken multiple steps to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region and safeguard the country's strategic interests.

Jaishankar said nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries while few thousand are in Iran for study or employment, making regional stability critical for India. The Gulf is also central to India's energy security and trade, accounting for nearly USD 200 billion in commerce, he said.

The minister said attacks on merchant shipping have affected Indian seafarers, with casualties reported and one Indian mariner still missing.

Jaishankar said the Indian government has remained in close contact with regional leaders, with Prime Minister Modi speaking to the leaders of the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and Israel, all of whom assured the safety of the Indian community.

He added India has also maintained diplomatic contact with the US and Iran, and he himself spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on February 28 and March 5.

"While attempts have been made, contacts with Iran at the leadership level are obviously difficult at this time. I have, however, spoken to (Iranian) Foreign Minister Araqi on 28th February and 5 March 2026. We will continue these high-level conversations in the coming days," he said.