Some 3,000 flights cancelled, 11,500 delayed worldwide on Tuesday: Tracker

He highlighted India's role as a "first responder" for the Maldives, emphasising that India's support during critical periods has been fundamental to the stability and security of the island nation.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the West Asia region and its impact on air travel between India and countries in the region. Airlines are undertaking necessary operational adjustments in view of the prevailing conditions to ensure passenger safety and the orderly conduct of flight operations.

Oman Air confirmed that flights to and from Amman (AMM), Dubai (DXB), Bahrain (BAH), Doha (DOH), Dammam (DMM), Kuwait (KWI), Copenhagen (CPH), Baghdad (BGW), and Khasab (KHS) are cancelled until March 22.

Two oil tankers caught fire near Iraq after being struck by an "unknown projectile," with UKMTO reporting all crew are "evacuated and safe." This follows a surge in maritime attacks amid regional conflict, drawing a sharp response from India and warnings from President Trump regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

"IndiGo continues to coordinate closely with the relevant authorities to progressively restore its flight operations across the Middle East, helping customers reconnect with their loved ones and proceed with their travel plans," the airline posted on X.

MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing an Inter-Ministerial Briefing on Recent Developments in West Asia, said that the Indian Embassy in Tehran remains fully operational and is on high alert. The government is assisting Indian nationals, including students and pilgrims, who wish to leave the country. He further added that those choosing to exit Iran via land, the embassy is assisting citizens in crossing into Armenia and Azerbaijan, from where they can board commercial flights to return to India.

A recent analysis by the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) has revealed a significant rise in anti-Indian commentary and hostility on social media platforms, with targeted posts and coordinated campaigns driving much of the online rhetoric, as stated in a column by Tanner Nau, Editorial Fellow at The Free Press.

Pakistan Railways cancelled 11 trains scheduled to depart from Karachi to several major cities across the country, citing technical faults, a move that left thousands of passengers stranded and drew fresh criticism over the worsening condition of Pakistan's rail system.

British Airways in a post on X cautioned its customers from falling to prey to scamsters.

US President Donald Trump suggested a temporary waiver of certain oil sanctions to curb soaring energy prices. He noted the US Navy could escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. This follows recent Treasury sanctions on Iran's "shadow fleet" used to fund military programmes.