Iran conflict: 1.6k from M’nagar village in Gulf, kin back home worried

Agra: Growing tension in West Asia following the recent escalation between Iran and the US-Israel combine has left many families in Muzaffarnagar's Kutesra village worried about their relatives working in Gulf countries. Mohammad Kamil, a former zila panchayat member, said over 1,600 people from the village are employed in countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar."We are constantly watching the news. My son and three nephews work in Saudi Arabia. Though they are fine, we are anxious," Kamil said.With almost every household in Kutesra dependent on Gulf employment, families have urged the govt to closely monitor the situation and ensure the safety and possible repatriation of Indian workers if conditions worsen.Another resident, Matlub Ahmed, said his three sons Naushad, Shehzad and Sarfaraz work as labourers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. "Many of them had booked tickets to come home for Eid, but flight suspensions disrupted their plans. We request the govt to ensure their safety and evacuate them if needed," said Ahmed.Mohammad Intazar, whose two sons are in Saudi Arabia, said they remain safe, but tensions are visible. "We will not be able to celebrate Eid with them this time due to the ongoing conflict. We speak to them regularly and are watching the news. We hope they return home soon," he said.