Last Updated:March 11, 2026, 18:00 IST

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that 28 Indian-flagged vessels are currently passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that two Indian nationals have been killed and one remains missing in the ongoing West Asia conflict, with all three having been aboard merchant vessels when the incidents occurred. At least two more Indians have been injured- one in Israel and another in Dubai earlier in the day.

Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Shipping, said the government was actively monitoring the situation as 28 Indian-flagged vessels continue to transit the Strait of Hormuz- one of the world’s most strategically vital and presently most dangerous shipping corridors- as Iran and the United States remain locked in open conflict.

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Of the 28 vessels, 24 are currently positioned west of the Strait, carrying over 670 Indian sailors. The remaining four vessels are east of the Strait, with 101 Indian sailors aboard. Sinha said the government was actively monitoring the safety and security of all crew members.

Indians Caught In Crossfire

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the two deaths and the disappearance of a third Indian national occurred while they were serving aboard merchant vessels navigating the volatile Gulf region. Beyond the maritime casualties, Indians have also suffered injuries on land. One Indian national was wounded in Israel, while a separate incident in Dubai on Wednesday morning left another Indian injured.

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Massive Diaspora At Risk

India’s stake in the crisis is enormous. Approximately one crore- or 10 million- Indian nationals reside across the GCC countries, making the Indian diaspora one of the largest foreign communities in the Gulf, Jaiswal said. With hostilities intensifying, the safety of this vast population has become an urgent priority for New Delhi. In Iran alone, around 900 Indian nationals are currently present, including students.

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The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been in regular contact with the community and some students and pilgrims have already been relocated to safer areas. The government said it was actively assisting all those who wished to return to India.

Control Room Activated

The MEA has set up a dedicated control room to monitor the evolving situation and coordinate assistance for Indian nationals across the conflict zone. The government said it was issuing regular advisories and urged all Indians in the region to stay in close contact with the nearest Indian mission and follow official guidance at all times.

News india Two Indians Killed In West Asia Conflict, 28 Indian-Flagged Vessels Currently In Hormuz: MEA

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