Millions of Asian migrant workers in Gulf face danger as Iran-US war escalates

Millions of Asian Migrant Workers in Gulf Face Danger

As tensions between Iran and the United States escalate due to a war that has seen US-Israeli strikes targeting Iran's Supreme Leader, millions of Asian migrant workers in the Gulf region are caught in the crossfire. These workers, many from Southeast Asian and South Asian nations like the Philippines, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, are critical to the region's key industries including construction and healthcare. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that over 24 million individuals are part of this workforce.

Nations such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Pakistan have issued advisories urging their citizens to seek shelter and monitor their locations. Vietnam has temporarily suspended deploying workers to the Middle East, while Bangladesh reports difficulties in repatriating its stranded workers due to flight restrictions. Evacuation and repatriation plans are being actively prepared by these governments as the situation remains unstable.

With regional tensions showing no signs of abatement, the safety and well-being of these migrant workers remain a pressing concern. Governments across the affected countries are working to ensure the safe return of their citizens once the conflict subsides.