Indian Expats in Gulf Face Uncertainty Amid US-Israel-Iran Tensions

The escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran have had far-reaching consequences, extending beyond just the geopolitical sphere. One of the lesser-known impacts of this conflict is the potential threat it poses to the livelihoods of millions of Indian expatriates working in the Gulf region, and the billions of dollars in remittances they send back home.

India is home to the world's largest diaspora, with an estimated 9 million Indian citizens working in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. These expats are the backbone of the Gulf economies, filling critical roles in various industries and professions. Their remittances to India, which totaled over $50 billion in 2019, have become an essential part of the Indian economy, supporting families, funding development projects, and contributing to the country's foreign exchange reserves.

However, the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran is now threatening the stability and security of this vast Indian expatriate community. The recent attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia and the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the increased military presence in the region, have led to gas shortages and disruptions in the supply chain. This, in turn, has put the livelihoods of these Indian workers at risk, as businesses struggle to maintain operations and employment levels.

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