Indian Airlines Suspend Flights to Middle East Following Escalation Between Israel and Iran

New Delhi. Following attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran, India's two largest private airlines, IndiGo and Air India, have suspended flights to all Middle East destinations.

"In view of the escalating situation in parts of the Middle East, all Air India flights to all destinations in the Middle East have been suspended," Air India stated in a press release issued via the social media platform X.

IndiGo also stated that it is temporarily suspending flights, prioritizing the safety of its customers and crew members.

Many Gulf nations are home to millions of Indian expatriates, and New Delhi has historically maintained a balanced relationship with Israel.

This region is also a critical source of energy for one of the world's fastest-growing major economies. The attack on Iran occurred one day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned home from a historic visit to Israel, where both sides agreed to strengthen trade and defense ties.

Addressing Israeli lawmakers, Prime Minister Modi had stated that New Delhi stood "firmly" with Israel following the deadly Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.