As tensions escalate in the Middle East, after missile strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on Saturday. At the same time, Afghanistan and Pakistan are also being subjected to airstrikes, further intensifying instability in the region.
Amid the widespread disruption, several Indians have been stranded in Dubai and other parts of the region. Actor Sonal Chauhan revealed on social media that she is currently stranded in Dubai after flight operations were suspended.
On Saturday, Sonal took to Instagram to seek assistance from the Indian government for her safe return. The Jannat actor shared a note on her Instagram Stories, writing: "Hon'ble PM @narendramodi ji, I am currently stranded in Dubai amid the ongoing crisis. Flights have been cancelled and there is no clear way to return to India. I'm seeking the government's guidance and support to help me get back home safely."
She added, "I would be deeply grateful for any assistance from the Government and guidance for a safe return @meaindia @india_in_dubai."
Meanwhile, India's Olympic medal-winning badminton star PV Sindhu revealed that an explosion occurred close to where she and her team were sheltering at Dubai airport after being stranded due to the Iran-linked attacks in the region. She later said the group had been moved to a safer location, crediting Dubai Airport authorities for their swift response.
Sindhu was en route to Birmingham for the All England Open, scheduled to begin on Tuesday, with Dubai as her transit stop. However, the escalating conflict brought air travel to a halt, leaving one of the world's busiest aviation hubs paralysed and thousands of passengers, including the two-time Olympic medallist, stranded without clarity on when flights would resume.
Earlier, Sindhu had shared visuals from inside the airport, noting that all flights were suspended until further notice. Dubai Airports later confirmed that operations at both Dubai International and Al Maktoum International Airport had been paused and advised travellers not to head to the terminals.
'Avoid unnecessary travel': India issues advisory for citizens in UAE
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi on Saturday issued an advisory for Indian citizens in the Middle East nation, hours after Iranian missiles struck the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital, claiming the life of at least one person. In its advisory, the embassy advised people to avoid unnecessary travel, adding that it is constantly monitoring the situation and will issue updates as necessary.
"In view of the current regional situation, all Indian nationals in the United Arab Emirates are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, take due care, remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines and advisories as and when issued by the UAE authorities and the Embassy," the advisory read, while also issuing emergency contact numbers (800-46342 and +971543090571) for the people.
On Saturday, Iran strongly reacted to the joint strikes by the United States (US) and Israel, launching missile strikes in the entire Middle East. In its missile strikes in Abu Dhabi, one person was killed. Iran also targeted Dubai, following which the Burj Khalifa was evacuated as a precautionary measure.
UAE's Defence Ministry has strongly criticised the Iranian strikes and said it is on a high alert to deal with all threats. It said all necessary precautions are also being taken to firmly counter everything that targets the disruption of the UAE's security and stability.
