New Delhi, October 29, 2026: At least 22 Indian nationals, including 14 seafarers, have been killed in the ongoing West Asia conflict as a result of US Iran war, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said, highlighting the growing human cost of the regional crisis and the risks faced by Indian citizens working across the Gulf.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the fatalities during a media briefing on Wednesday, October 28, saying the government remained deeply concerned about the conflict and was maintaining contact with Indian communities across the region.
“We are deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict in West Asia. We have lost 22 Indian nationals in the conflict, including 14 seafarers,” Jaiswal said.
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He added that three Indians had lost their lives in Saudi Arabia.
The government said Indian diplomatic missions in the region were in close contact with the community to monitor developments and assist nationals wherever required.
Seafarers Among Those Killed In US Iran War: MEA
The fact that 14 of the 22 Indian fatalities were seafarers has drawn attention to the dangers confronting maritime workers as the conflict disrupts shipping routes and threatens commercial vessels.
Indian nationals work aboard merchant ships transporting crude oil, liquefied natural gas, cargo and other essential goods across the Gulf and surrounding waters. Escalating military activity and threats to maritime traffic have increased concerns about the safety of crews operating in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, is particularly important for international energy shipments. Disruptions in and around the waterway can affect commercial shipping, energy supplies and the movement of seafarers.
The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, linking the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden, has also emerged as a significant security concern amid attacks attributed to Yemen-based Houthi forces. The MEA has not publicly provided a detailed breakdown of the circumstances surrounding each of the 22 deaths in its reported statement.
Three Indians Killed in Saudi Arabia During US Iran War
Jaiswal said three Indian nationals had died in Saudi Arabia during the conflict. The announcement comes amid heightened concerns over attacks on Saudi territory and critical infrastructure. Recent reports have described incidents involving civilian and energy-related facilities, prompting India to express concern over the security situation.
India has condemned attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and economic assets in Saudi Arabia and warned that the escalation threatens regional stability and freedom of navigation.
The MEA has continued to monitor the situation through Indian diplomatic missions and has urged Indian nationals in affected areas to follow local advisories and instructions from authorities.
India in Touch With Indians Across the Gulf Amid US Iran War
The government said it remained in close contact with Indian communities throughout the Gulf region to support their safety and well-being.
Millions of Indians live and work across West Asia, including in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. They are employed in sectors ranging from construction and healthcare to engineering, hospitality, transport and maritime services.
The large Indian diaspora makes the security situation a major concern for New Delhi, particularly when hostilities threaten civilian infrastructure, transport links or employment centres.
Indian embassies and consulates have been monitoring developments and issuing advisories as required. Nationals in the region are advised to remain alert, follow instructions issued by local authorities and keep in touch with the nearest Indian diplomatic mission if they require assistance.
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US Iran War Began in February
The current phase of the conflict began on February 28, 2026, following US and Israeli attacks on Iran. The confrontation has since heightened regional tensions and raised concerns about further military escalation.
India has repeatedly called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the US Iran war, while expressing concern over attacks that threaten civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
The widening security risks have also brought renewed attention to the protection of merchant shipping and the safety of seafarers working along key maritime routes.
Why the Death Toll Matters for India
The reported deaths underline the exposure of Indian citizens to regional conflicts, particularly those working aboard commercial vessels or in countries affected by military operations.
For India, the immediate priorities include monitoring the safety of its nationals, maintaining communication with families, coordinating with regional governments and ensuring that diplomatic channels remain open.
The deaths of seafarers also highlight the risks faced by workers who help sustain international trade and energy transportation, often operating far from their home countries.
As the conflict continues, the government is expected to remain focused on consular assistance and the safety of Indian communities across the region.
