The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has confirmed that no Indian citizen was killed in the recent projectile strike that hit a residential area in Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia, amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region. The clarification came after initial reports created confusion about possible casualties among Indian nationals following the Iranian strike.
In its official statement, the embassy said reports suggesting the death of an Indian citizen were incorrect, bringing relief to families and the large Indian expatriate community living in Saudi Arabia. However, officials confirmed that one Indian national sustained injury and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The embassy also urged Indians in the region to remain alert and follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.
Iranian projectile strikes residential area in Al Kharj
The incident occurred when a military projectile linked to Iran’s retaliatory attacks struck a residential compound in Al Kharj, a city located south of Riyadh. The building reportedly housed workers employed by maintenance and service companies.
The attack came amid the ongoing regional conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which has expanded beyond direct battle zones to include strikes on Gulf countries.
Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence authorities said the projectile caused damage to residential buildings and injuries to several residents, triggering emergency response operations at the site.
Confusion over casualty reports
Earlier reports suggested that the strike had resulted in the death of an Indian citizen along with a Bangladeshi national. However, the Indian Embassy later clarified that no Indian fatality occurred, correcting the information circulating in media reports.
Diplomatic officials explained that the embassy immediately contacted local authorities and verified details about the victims before issuing the clarification.
The embassy’s statement reassured Indian families and highlighted that consular officials are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with Saudi authorities.
Rising tensions across Gulf region
The attack on Al Kharj is part of a broader wave of Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting strategic locations across the Gulf. These attacks are seen as retaliation following the joint US-Israel military strikes on Iran that triggered the current regional conflict.
Several countries in the Middle East—including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain—have reported drone or missile threats during the conflict. The strikes have targeted military installations, radar systems, and occasionally civilian areas when debris or projectiles fall in residential zones.
The conflict has significantly increased security concerns across the region, particularly for foreign workers and expatriate communities.
Advisory issued for Indians in Saudi Arabia
Following the incident, the Indian Embassy issued a fresh advisory for Indian citizens living in Saudi Arabia. The embassy asked residents to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and stay updated through official channels.
Authorities also emphasized avoiding unnecessary travel to sensitive areas and strictly complying with emergency instructions issued by local officials.
Saudi Arabia hosts one of the largest Indian expatriate populations in the world, with millions of Indians working across sectors such as construction, healthcare, engineering, and services.
Diplomatic focus on safety and stability
The Indian government has been closely monitoring developments in the Gulf due to its strategic interests in the region, including energy imports and the safety of Indian citizens.
Officials have expressed concern over the escalating conflict and have urged all sides to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic solutions to prevent further civilian harm.
For now, the embassy continues to stay in contact with local authorities while providing assistance to Indians who may require help amid the growing regional tensions.