Indian airlines on Tuesday announced the resumption of limited commercial services to parts of the Middle East in a bid to evacuate thousands of passengers stranded by the ongoing conflict in the region.
Millions of South Asian citizens live and work across the Middle East, and flight disruptions have left many unable to return home.
IndiGo said it would operate four return flights to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia as part of efforts to “progressively normalise” operations between the two countries.
Air India Express also announced it would resume flights to and from Muscat, the capital of Oman, starting Tuesday.
Budget carrier Akasa Air said it would operate select flights to Jeddah.
However, services to and from Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates remain largely suspended, according to the airlines.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held discussions with several Middle Eastern leaders, including those of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. In social media posts, Modi thanked them for “taking care of the Indian community” during the crisis.
The conflict has reportedly claimed the lives of several South Asian nationals. Reports indicate that at least one Nepali was killed in Abu Dhabi, while two Bangladeshis died in Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Indian media also reported the death of one Indian citizen aboard a vessel off Oman.
On Monday, Modi said he had spoken with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, conveying India’s concerns over recent developments and emphasising that civilian safety must remain a priority.
Airlines said further decisions on flight operations would depend on security assessments and government advisories.
