India, in its first reaction to fresh escalation of tensions in West Asia, on Wednesday expressed concern and called for restraint by all sides cautioning the conflict must not take a wider regional dimension.

These comments came a day after Iran fired around 200 missiles into Israel in response to Israel’s killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah and other commanders of the militant outfit.

New Delhi said it is deeply concerned over the escalating security situation in West Asia and called for addressing all issues through “dialogue and diplomacy”.

“We are deeply concerned at the escalation of the security situation in West Asia and reiterate our call for restraint by all concerned and protection of civilians,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

“It is important that the conflict does not take a wider regional dimension and we urge that all issues be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy,” it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, in the wake of the escalating tensions in West Asia, India on Wednesday advised its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran.

In an advisory, MEA also urged the Indian nationals presently residing in Iran to remain vigilant and stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran.

“We are closely monitoring the recent escalation in security situation in the region,” MEA said.  “Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran. Those currently residing in Iran are requested to remain vigilant and stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran,” it said.

The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv on Tuesday issued an advisory for Indian nationals living in Israel.  “In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols as advised by the local authorities,” it said. “Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel within the country and stay close to safety shelters,” it said.

The embassy said it is closely monitoring the situation and remains in regular touch with the Israeli authorities to ensure the safety of all Indian nationals.

Delhi Police has strengthened security around the Israel Embassy in Tughlak Road area after the tension increased in West Asia.

A senior Delhi Police officer said the checking has been intensified with the deployment of more security personnel around the Israel Embassy located at Tughlak Road area.

The officer said a multi-layered security has already been put in place with several CCTV cameras installed around both structures as the embassy has witnessed blasts twice earlier, though no one was injured in any of the incidents.