In guarded response without naming any party, New Delhi calls for restraint, safety of civilians

After Iran launched an attack on Israel on Tuesday, sparking fears of a wider regional conflict, Indian govt expressed deep concern over the developing situation in West Asia , urging all parties to exercise restraint and address issues through dialogue and diplomacy to ensure the entire region isn't engulfed by the conflict.

While India sought protection of civilians, it didn't condemn, unlike close partners like France and Japan, the escalation by Iran, or name any country in its guarded response to the fresh flare-up.

"We are deeply concerned at the escalation of the security situation in West Asia and reiterate our call for restraint by all concerned and protection of civilians," a statement issued by the Union ministry of external affairs stated.

"It is important that the conflict doesn't take a wider regional dimension and we urge that all issues be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy," the govt added.

For India, as official sources said, the first priority is to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals in Israel and Iran. "We are closely monitoring the recent escalation in security situation in the region," said the govt in another advisory Wednesday, as it advised Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran.

"Those currently residing in Iran are requested to remain vigilant and stay in contact with Indian embassy in Tehran," it said. Govt had Tuesday asked Indian nationals in Israel to stay vigilant & follow local safety protocols.

There are around 26,000 Indian nationals in Israel. The two countries had earlier signed an agreement to facilitate temporary employment of Indian workers in Israel. According to MEA, under the agreement, 4,825 Indian workers are placed in Israel.

India's balancing act on the war in Gaza has seen it strongly backing Israel on the issue of terrorism but also calling repeatedly for ceasefire in recent times, condemning civilian deaths and underlining the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law.

Before he spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this week, PM Narendra Modi had met Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas and reaffirmed India's continued support to the people of Palestine.

Iran's attack was in response to the killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli attack last week. Israel has threatened Iran with consequences, saying it will respond at a time and place of its own choosing.