India Vigilantly Monitors West Asia Conflict Escalation

Conflict Trigger
Joint U.S.-Israel airstrikes on February 28 targeted Iranian military sites, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Operation Roaring Lion. Iran vowed retaliation, firing missiles at Gulf U.S. bases and partially closing the Strait of Hormuz, vital for India's 85% oil imports.

 India's Strategic Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened the Cabinet Committee on Security post-state tour to assess impacts. MEA expressed deep concern, calling for de-escalation, dialogue, and civilian safety respect. Missions assist 8-10 million Indians in Gulf via visa extensions and evacuations if needed.

Economic Implications
Oil prices jumped to $72-73/barrel from $65, pressuring India's CAD by 0.4% per 10% rise. Rupee fell to 91.08/USD; economists warn of inflation, deficits, FII outflows, but RBI reserves buffer short-term shocks.

Key Highlights
PM Modi chairs CCS meeting on West Asia crisis
MEA urges restraint, activates citizen advisories
Oil via Hormuz at risk; prices up 10-12%
Rupee at 91.08; CAD deterioration feared
Remittances from 10M Indians in Gulf vulnerable

Sources: Economic Times, Indian Express, MEA Statement