The Human Cost of the Gulf Conflict: Migrant Workers in Peril

The Gulf region is currently engulfed in a rapidly escalating military conflict following Iran's missile and drone attacks in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian territory on February 28, 2026. This conflict has resulted in significant casualties among migrant workers, primarily from South and Southeast Asia, who are caught in the crossfire. Reports indicate that three foreign nationals—Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi—were killed in the United Arab Emirates due to debris from intercepted missiles, highlighting the vulnerability of these workers in a region they once considered safe.

Explosions Rock Abu Dhabi, Dubai & Riyadh: Iran’s Relentless Missile Blitz Enters Sixth Day Across the Gulf

Migrant workers form the backbone of the economies in Gulf states, with millions employed across various sectors, including healthcare, construction, and domestic services. Countries such as India, Nepal, and Bangladesh rely heavily on remittances from their nationals working in the Gulf. For instance, India received approximately $137 billion in remittances in 2024, while remittances accounted for 25.2% of Nepal's GDP. However, the ongoing conflict threatens these economic lifelines, as many workers are now unable to commute to work or are facing repatriation, which could lead to financial ruin for their families back home.

Gulf War’s Fury Spotlights Migrant Workers’ Dilemma

The situation for migrant workers is dire. Many are trapped in their accommodations, unable to leave due to the ongoing violence. Reports from the International Organization for Migration indicate that workers from countries like the Philippines, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh have faced immediate risks from airstrikes. Some, like Filipino caregiver Mary Anne Velasquez de Vera, have already lost their lives while attempting to protect others during attacks. Despite the dangers, many workers are reluctant to leave their jobs, fearing that doing so would jeopardize their livelihoods and the financial support they provide to their families.

Governments across Asia are receiving distress calls from their citizens seeking repatriation. The Philippine government has begun coordinating with embassies to facilitate the return of affected workers, with some already evacuated from Dubai. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed his Cabinet to assist Indian nationals in the region. However, many migrants remain hesitant to leave, as they weigh the risks of staying against the potential loss of income and job security.

Critics argue that the plight of migrant workers has been largely overlooked in discussions about the conflict. The Business and Human Rights Center has highlighted previous instances where workers were abandoned by employers during crises, often without wages or travel documents. This ongoing situation raises questions about the responsibilities of Gulf states towards their foreign labor force, who contribute significantly to their economies yet face severe risks during conflicts.

Gulf War’s Fury Spotlights Migrant Workers’ Dilemma

• “Every family wants to send its youth to the Middle East because there are no jobs here, and the security situation is difficult,” — Farman Khan, Cousin of Murib Zaman

New York Times

• “I want to go back home. I have three children, and I’m very scared the conflict will worsen. I can see drones and missiles passing by from the windows here,” — Anna Santos, Filipino Domestic Worker

• “I’ll do my job or someone else will take it,” — Bibin Lal, Plumber in Bahrain

The ongoing military conflict in the Gulf region poses a significant threat to the lives and livelihoods of millions of migrant workers. As the situation continues to evolve, the implications for both the workers and their home countries remain profound, with potential long-term economic consequences. The need for coordinated international responses and protections for these vulnerable populations has never been more urgent.

Gulf War’s Fury Spotlights Migrant Workers’ Dilemma