Sushma assures families of abducted Indians, says govt. will do its best

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday assured the families of the abducted Indians in Iraq, saying the government will make every effort to rescue those who have been stranded.

"The government will make every effort to rescue those who have been stranded, but the immediate evacuation of Indians is not possible due to the tense situation in Iraq," said Swaraj.

"The government is doing all it can for those who have been stranded. We are in contact with every organisation possible to help us in our efforts to rescue the Indians in the country, but patience is essential," she said.

"Not only are we doing what the government has to do, but are leaving no stone unturned to help the victims. Twenty-four family members of the Indians who have been abducted have come to meet us, and I have requested the family members to trust us and pray to God," she added.

Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal was also present in the meeting along with the families of those stranded.

Earlier today, The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) introduced a 24*7 helpline for the Indians trapped in Iraq.

The MEA also confirmed that the location of the trapped Indians is being tracked, however, they have not been able to track the trapped nationals.