Iran's offensive: India advises nationals in Israel to 'stay calm'

New Delhi: Following the launch of drones and missiles by Iran at Israel, India on Sunday urged Indian nationals in Israel to "stay calm" and follow the safety protocols. Iran's fresh offensive has started turning the situation in the Middle East more volatile, NDTV reported.

The Indian embassy in Israel has released helpline numbers and advised all nationals to register with the embassy.

Earlier on the day, the Indian foreign ministry said that India is seriously concerned at the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran and added that it threatens the peace and security in the West Asia region.

The ministry released a statement which read, "We call for immediate de-escalation, exercise of restraint, stepping back from violence and return to the path of diplomacy. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation. Our Embassies in the region are in close touch with the Indian community. It is vital that security and stability are maintained in the region."

Meanwhile, the Israeli military said that most of the more than 200 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and attack drones launched by Iran had been intercepted by Israel's defence and allies before they landed.

US President Joe Biden said that their forces worked in taking down nearly all of the launches fired by Iran. He added that he had reaffirmed his "ironclad" support to Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He said he would call the fellow leaders of the G7 group of wealthy nations to coordinate a "united diplomatic response" to Iran's offensive.

As part of the "True Promise" operation, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared on Saturday that it had unleashed the drones and missiles. It also stated that this action was a form of retaliation for "Israeli crimes."