Israel-Iran War Impact: 760+ Flights Grounded in India, PM Modi Pledges to Protect Citizens

Over 760 international flights have been cancelled in India over the past two days due to the Israel-Iran war. Even today, 87 flights were cancelled at Delhi Airport. Thousands of passengers are stranded at Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad International Airports.

In light of the current situation in the Middle East, the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi has been closed to visitors until March 9th. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the Israel-Iran war today. After meeting with Canadian PM Mark Carney in Delhi, Modi said,

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The situation in West Asia is worrying. India will work with all countries to ensure the safety of its citizens. We are in favor of resolving the issue through dialogue.

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Meanwhile, protests erupted in Jammu and Kashmir for the second consecutive day over the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei. Security forces lathi-charged and used tear gas against protesters in the Bemina area of ​​Srinagar. Some people were detained. Markets were closed in Shopian, Baramulla, and Bandipora.

Violent protests and demonstrations in Pakistan

In addition to India, protests against Khamenei's death are continuing in Pakistan as well. Protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK) turned violent this morning.

Protesters in Gilgit-Baltistan set fire to the United Nations office. In Skardu, the Superintendent of Police's office and several government buildings were burned. Seven protesters were killed and more than 12 injured in firing by security forces.

Earlier on Sunday, protests against Khamenei's death erupted at the US Consulate in Karachi, Pakistan. Shots were fired from inside the consulate against intruding protesters. So far, 23 people have died and more than 10 are injured.

10,000 Indians in Iran

Around 10,000 Indian citizens live, study, and work in Iran. While more than 40,000 live in Israel, there are approximately 9 million Indians in the Gulf and West Asia.

Indian Embassies in Middle East Countries Issue Advisory

Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Ambassador Parmita Tripathi, held a virtual interaction with approximately 100 prominent members of the Indian community and heads of Indian associations in Kuwait.

Indian embassies in Kuwait, Austria, Oman, and Lebanon have also issued advisories for Indians stranded there.

Security Tightened in the Capital Delhi Following Protests

Security has been increased in several parts of the National Capital following protests and gatherings to mourn the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

As a precaution, more police have been deployed in sensitive areas, especially diplomatic missions and Shia-populated areas.

For up-to-the-minute updates on the Iran-Israel war and its impact on the world, read the blog below…