Israel-Iran war sparks anxiety among Kerala expatriates in Gulf

Abu Dhabi: The escalating Israel-Iran conflict has sparked deep concern in Kerala, home to one of India’s largest expatriate communities in West Asia. With millions of Malayalis living across Gulf nations, families in the state are anxiously tracking developments amid rising regional tensions.

According to official estimates, around 1.8 million Malayalis reside in Saudi Arabia and approximately 1.5 million in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The community presence is also significant in other Gulf countries — about 400,000 in Kuwait, 300,000 in Qatar, 200,000 in Bahrain and 200,000 in Oman. In comparison, around 15,000 Malayalis are in Israel, while fewer than 100 are believed to be in Iran.

So far, no formal decision has been announced regarding the evacuation of Malayalis from affected regions, officials said.

Missile debris reported in Abu Dhabi

Amid heightened security alerts, a residential area in Abu Dhabi was reportedly damaged by falling missile debris linked to regional hostilities. Debris was reported from parts of Saadiyat Island, St Regis Abu Dhabi, Khalifa City, Baniyas, Mohammed bin Zayed City and Al Falah.

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Authorities in the UAE released visuals related to the incident. There have been multiple reports of security alerts and suspected missile activity in Abu Dhabi in recent days. Dubai International Airport was temporarily closed as a precautionary measure, while nearly 260 flights from the Gulf region were cancelled, according to aviation sources.

‘First the sound of an explosion, then warning messages’

Malayalis living in the region described tense moments as alerts unfolded.

“I had no information that there would be an attack. I went to work as usual,” said Anju Ajil, a nurse from Iritty in Kannur district who is currently working in Abu Hamur, Qatar.

“I was treating a patient at home when I heard a loud sound outside. At first, I didn’t understand what it was. Then I saw a white powder-like cloud in the sky. Soon after, there were repeated explosion sounds. Warning messages began coming in on the phone. By then, everyone had rushed indoors and shut their doors and windows,” she said.

Ajil added that she had been advised to keep her passport ready and remain prepared for any emergency. “We are continuing here with the belief that only military bases are being targeted,” she said.

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Norka Roots launches helpdesk

In response to growing concerns among families in Kerala, Norka Roots has launched a dedicated helpdesk for Keralites in Iran, Israel and other West Asian countries.

Those requiring assistance can register by giving a missed international call to +91-8802012345 or by calling the toll-free number 1800-425-3939 from India, according to the Chief Minister’s Office and Norka officials.