Impact of Iran's Retaliation on Migrant Workers in the Gulf

As Iran retaliates against U.S. and Israeli strikes that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, millions of migrant workers in the Gulf region face significant risks. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that over 24 million migrant workers, primarily from Southeast and South Asia, support critical sectors in the Middle East, including healthcare and construction.

South China Morning Post

Countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Pakistan are closely monitoring their citizens in the Gulf, urging them to shelter in place amid escalating violence. The Philippine government has reported that a Filipino caregiver was killed by shrapnel in Tel Aviv, and another worker was injured in Kuwait. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) confirmed casualties among migrant workers from Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. The Philippine Migrant Workers Secretary, Hans Leo Cacdac, indicated that the government is prepared to order a mandatory repatriation of its 2.4 million workers in the region if conditions deteriorate further.

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In light of the ongoing conflict, Vietnam has temporarily suspended the deployment of workers to the Middle East, while Bangladesh has reported that its workers are stranded due to airspace closures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, which has approximately 9 million workers in the Gulf, has engaged with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed to ensure the safety of Indian nationals. Indian officials are coordinating measures to assist affected citizens, emphasizing the critical role of migrant workers in the Gulf economies.

Millions of migrant workers in Gulf at risk as Iran retaliates

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has convened emergency meetings to address the escalating tensions and consider coordinated responses to Iranian actions. The GCC states have affirmed their right to self-defense and warned of potential retaliatory measures. The conflict has raised concerns about the stability of the region, which is vital for global finance and logistics.

'Return to your senses': Gulf states close ranks against Iran as regional strikes escalate tensions

Critics have highlighted the precarious situation of migrant workers, many of whom are employed in low-income jobs and lack adequate protections. Previous conflicts have seen workers abandoned by employers, often without wages or travel documents. The current situation raises fears of similar outcomes, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of these workers.

South China Morning Post

While reports indicate casualties among migrant workers, the exact numbers and circumstances remain unclear, with varying accounts from different sources. The ongoing conflict's impact on the broader economic landscape, including potential disruptions to trade and travel, also remains to be fully assessed.

South China Morning Post

• “It’s been the third day that we are not getting any sleep. You can clearly hear the booming sound of missiles getting intercepted,” — Kris Paglicawan, Retail Worker in Qatar

Millions of migrant workers in Gulf at risk as Iran retaliates

• “We will have to prepare for all contingencies.” — Jonvic Remulla, Interior and Local Government Secretary of the Philippines

Millions of migrant workers in Gulf at risk as Iran retaliates

As the situation evolves, governments are preparing for possible evacuations and are closely monitoring the safety of their nationals in the Gulf. The international community's response to the conflict and its implications for migrant workers will be crucial in the coming days.

South China Morning Post