“Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement on X.
India on Saturday expressed deep concerns over the developments in Iran and the Gulf region and urged all sides to exercise restraint and pursue diplomacy to de-escalate tensions.
“India is deeply concerned at the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region. We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians. Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues. Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement on X.
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“Our Missions in the region are in touch with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate advisories asking them to remain vigilant, stay in contact with the Missions, and follow local security guidance,” Jaiswal added.
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The Indian reaction came hours after the US and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran. Both countries launched large-scale missile attacks across the country, targeting the top Iranian leadership and key military sites.
At least 51 people, mostly little school children, were killed after a missile fired by the US and Israel struck a primary school building, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said.
“The destroyed building is a primary school for girls in the south of Iran. It was bombed in broad daylight, when packed with young pupils. Dozens of innocent children have been murdered at this site alone. These crimes against the Iranian People will not go unanswered,” he said.
According to the Israel Defence Forces, the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader and the presidential office in Tehran were targeted. Several military targets in Kermanshah, Qum, Isfahan, Tabriz, Karaj and as well as at Iranian naval facilities in Kenarak were also hit.
News reports citing unnamed sources also claimed that Iranian Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour were killed in the US and Israeli strikes. However, there was no confirmation on this from the Iranian Regime.
In response to the US and Israeli aggression, Iran also launched retaliatory missile attacks, targeting several US military bases in the Middle East.
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