External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday briefed the Rajya Sabha about the escalating conflict in West Asia following a series of joint US and Israeli strikes on Iran that have led to a broader regional crisis. Speaking in the Upper House amid sloganeering by Opposition members, Jaishankar said that the Prime Minister is closely monitoring the situation and that various ministries are coordinating to ensure an effective response.

The conflict reportedly began on February 28 after US and Israeli forces carried out strikes on Iran, which resulted in the death of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several key figures of the ruling establishment. Since then, the situation has intensified, with additional attacks over the weekend targeting oil depots and water desalination facilities.

Jaishankar said the Indian government had already expressed concerns about rising tensions in the region. He noted that on February 20 the government issued a statement urging all sides to act with restraint and emphasised that dialogue and diplomacy remain the best path to reducing tensions. He also highlighted the seriousness of the crisis, confirming that India formally voiced its concern when the conflict erupted on February 28, 2026. The minister reiterated India’s position that diplomatic engagement is essential to ease tensions, while pointing to the increasing casualties and the disruption in Iran’s leadership.

Jaishankar further informed the House that the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been actively reviewing the situation. The committee has been particularly concerned about the impact of the conflict on Indians living in the region and on Indian travellers. According to the minister, all concerned ministries have been directed to take necessary steps to address the situation. He also warned that the geopolitical environment has deteriorated further, with the conflict spreading beyond its initial area and affecting other countries in the region.

Despite the disruptions in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar stressed that India continues to support a peaceful resolution and maintained that dialogue and diplomacy are the most effective means to reduce tensions. Meanwhile, Opposition members continued demanding a detailed discussion under Rule 176, focusing on energy security and the safety of the Indian diaspora.