NEW DELHI: India on Friday expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Red Sea region, condemning attacks on Saudi Arabia and warning that the escalation threatens regional peace and freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb. The Ministry of External Affairs also said the Indian embassy remains in contact with Saudi authorities over the case of an Indian citizen who has reportedly received a prison sentence.MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said attacks on Saudi sovereign territory, including those targeting civilians and economic assets, were unacceptable and could further undermine security in the region.“About the situation in the Red Sea area and in Saudi Arabia, we are deeply concerned with the escalation in the security situation in the Red Sea area. You would have seen our statement earlier as well; we have expressed our condemnation of the attacks on Saudi sovereign territory, including on civilians and on economic assets. You would have also seen our statement which we issued following the attempted attack on the holy city of Mecca. Such attacks—I need not elaborate or reiterate—they vitiate the regional security, they impact or undermine regional peace and security, and also threaten freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb. And obviously, for various reasons, this is totally unacceptable to us. We hope that there is early restoration of peace and stability in the region.”Jaiswal said India was particularly concerned about the implications for maritime security and navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb, a key waterway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.India monitoring case of citizen in Saudi ArabiaResponding to concerns over an Indian citizen in Saudi Arabia who has reportedly been sentenced to prison, Jaiswal said Indian diplomatic authorities remain engaged with local governments in cases involving the safety and welfare of Indian nationals.“Concerns have been expressed regarding the situation of an Indian citizen in Saudi Arabia. Look, whenever any such issue arises involving an Indian citizen—whether it concerns their interest or their well-being—our embassy, whether in Saudi Arabia or any other country, remains in continuous dialogue with the local government for their welfare. Regarding this matter where you mentioned that they have received a prison sentence, I do not have a specific answer for you right now on what their current situation is, but I will gather the details and update you.
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However, I would like to say one thing: wherever Indian citizens are in any corner of the world, it is our commitment that we remain constantly dedicated to their safety, care, and welfare.”Jaiswal said the MEA would gather further details about the specific case and provide an update on the Indian citizen’s current situation.Delhi: MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “Concerns have been expressed regarding the situation of an Indian citizen in Saudi Arabia. Look, whenever any such issue arises involving an Indian citizen—whether it concerns their interest or their well-being—our embassy, whether in Saudi Arabia or any other country, remains in continuous dialogue with the local government for their welfare. Regarding this matter where you mentioned that they have received a prison sentence, I do not have a specific answer for you right now on what their current situation is, but I will gather the details and update you. However, I would like to say one thing: wherever Indian citizens are in any corner of the world, it is our commitment that we remain constantly dedicated to their safety, care, and welfare.”
