Prime Minister Modi has conveyed New Delhi's concerns about the safety of Indian citizens in the Gulf region

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked for an "early cessation of hostilities" in a call with Benjamin Netanyahu, as the violence in the Middle East continues to escalate.

The US and Israel attacked Iran over the weekend, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. 

Tehran has retaliated by striking US military bases across the Gulf.

Iran has also targeted several major regional aviation hubs, including the Dubai International Airport.

Modi said in a post on X on Sunday that he discussed the situation in the Middle East with Netanyahu.

"Conveyed India's concerns over recent developments and emphasized the safety of civilians as a priority," he said. "India reiterates the need for an early cessation of hostilities."

Modi was in Israel on a two-day official visit last week.

There are more than 9 million Indian expatriates in the Middle East and nearly 18,000 in Israel, according to official figures. 

Modi also spoke with the president of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, regarding the situation.

"I strongly condemned the attacks on the UAE and offered my heartfelt condolences for the human losses resulting from them. India stands in solidarity with the UAE during these difficult times," he said in another post on X.

The UAE hosts the largest number of Indian expats in the Gulf, numbering more than 3 million. Official estimates put the number of Indians in Iran at 9,000-10,000.

  "I thanked him for his care for the Indian community residing in the UAE. We support de-escalation, regional peace, security, and stability," Modi said in the post.

The Indian prime minister also chaired the Cabinet Committee on Security on Sunday to review the evolving situation in the Middle East and reviewed the difficulties faced by Indian travelers transiting the region.

Hundreds of thousands of travelers have been stranded across the Middle East following airspace closures.

Russia, China, and several nations have condemned the US and Israeli attacks.