Hyderabad: Minister Tummala stranded in Dubai after Gulf airspace was closed following escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran.
Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao remained unable to return to India as flight operations were suspended across the region. The disruption followed US military actions against Iran and the widening conflict involving Israel.
The Minister had travelled to Dubai five days ago to attend to a seriously ill family member seeking advanced medical care. However, as he prepared to return after the treatment concluded, the situation in West Asia deteriorated sharply.
Minister Tummala stranded in Dubai after airport suspension
Authorities suspended airspace operations across Gulf nations amid rising tensions. In Dubai, the suspension followed missile strikes launched by Iran near Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport late Sunday evening. The strikes came in response to coordinated attacks by Israeli and US forces on Iranian targets.
As a result, all flight operations from Dubai were halted for security reasons. Consequently, Minister Tummala stranded in Dubai remained unable to board a return flight.
The regional unrest triggered temporary shutdowns of airport operations, affecting several outbound passengers. Officials cited safety concerns while announcing the suspension.
Minister Tummala stranded in Dubai but assures safety
Despite the disruption, the Minister contacted associates over the phone and confirmed that he was safe. He said he would return to India only after airport authorities granted clearance.
Moreover, he urged supporters not to worry about his safety. He clarified that there was no immediate threat to him despite the prevailing tensions.
The closure of Gulf airspace continued amid heightened security measures. Until operations resume, Minister Tummala stranded in Dubai will remain there awaiting further instructions from authorities.