Three Indian nationals were injured in a suspected Iranian strike in the UAE's Fujairah region on Wednesday, prompting the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to term the incident as completely unacceptable. The MEA is in close touch with UAE authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individuals.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred in the port city of Fujairah, which lies on the Gulf of Oman. According to initial reports, the strike targeted a location near a residential area, causing injuries to three Indian expatriates. The injured have been admitted to a local hospital, and their condition is stated to be stable. The MEA has not officially confirmed the nature of the attack but has expressed deep concern over the safety of Indian citizens abroad.
MEA's Response
In a statement, the MEA spokesperson said, "We are deeply concerned about the reported strike in Fujairah that has injured three Indians. We have taken up the matter with UAE authorities and expect a thorough investigation. The safety of Indians overseas is our top priority. Such incidents are unacceptable and we condemn any act that endangers civilian lives." The Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi is coordinating with local hospitals and authorities to provide necessary assistance to the injured.
Regional Tensions
The suspected Iranian strike comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Iran has not officially commented on the incident. The UAE, a key ally of the United States, has been on alert following recent escalations in the Persian Gulf. Fujairah, known for its strategic oil port, has been a target of previous attacks. In 2019, four commercial vessels were damaged off the coast of Fujairah in a sabotage attack that was blamed on Iran by some countries, though Tehran denied involvement.
Impact on Indian Community
There are over 3.5 million Indians living in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate community in the country. The incident has caused anxiety among the Indian diaspora. Community leaders have urged calm and called for enhanced security measures. The MEA has advised Indian nationals in the UAE to stay vigilant and follow local security advisories.
International Reactions
The international community has reacted with concern. The United States condemned the attack and called for de-escalation. The United Nations has urged all parties to exercise restraint. The MEA has reiterated its call for peaceful resolution of conflicts and emphasized the need to protect civilian lives. The Indian government is monitoring the situation closely and will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of its citizens.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of civilians in conflict zones. The MEA's strong condemnation underscores India's commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
