Tensions escalating between the US, Israel, and Iran have left numerous Indians stranded in West Asia, with Qatar emerging as a hotspot for those on short-term visas. Flight cancellations triggered by the volatile security situation have trapped tourists and short-term visitors, prompting swift action from the Indian Embassy in Doha.
The embassy issued an urgent advisory on social media platform X, calling on affected Indian nationals to submit their details via an online form. Specifically targeting those with tourist or Hayya A1 visas who arrived between February 28 and March 7, 2026, the notice aims to accurately gauge the number of non-residents stuck in the country. This data collection is crucial for coordinating evacuation and support measures amid the chaos.
Compounding the crisis, Qatar’s Energy Minister Saad Al-Kaabi warned of severe repercussions for global energy markets. In an interview with the Financial Times, he revealed that Gulf exporters might soon declare ‘force majeure,’ absolving them from supply obligations due to uncontrollable circumstances like ongoing conflicts or attacks.
Al-Kaabi highlighted the vulnerability of shipping routes through vital straits, predicting crude oil prices could surge to $150 per barrel within two to three weeks if disruptions persist. Natural gas prices might quadruple to $40 per MMBtu, exacerbating inflation worldwide. This week alone, Brent crude futures jumped nearly 20%, closing above $89 per barrel, while WTI climbed over 5% to $86—levels not seen since April 2024.
Qatar, the world’s second-largest LNG producer, has already invoked force majeure following an Iranian drone strike on its massive Ras Laffan LNG plant. Damage assessments are underway, but the incident underscores the direct threats to energy infrastructure in the region.
As India collaborates with regional governments for repatriation, stranded citizens are urged to stay vigilant and follow embassy updates. The situation remains fluid, with potential for further escalations impacting travel and energy supplies globally.