KUALA LUMPUR - Millions of migrant workers are facing increasing risk as fighting intensifies in the Middle East following Iran’s retaliation against United States and Israeli strikes.

Workers from Southeast and South Asian countries make up a large part of the Gulf’s workforce, with the International Labour Organization estimating more than 24 million migrants employed in sectors such as healthcare, construction and domestic work.

The Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand said on March 2 they were tracking the whereabouts of their citizens and advising them to remain indoors, while preparing evacuation plans if the situation worsens.

Vietnam has temporarily stopped sending workers to the region, citing ongoing instability, while Bangladesh said some of its nationals were stranded due to airspace closures.

Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi said in a post on X that he had spoken to United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan about taking care of the Indian community.

He added that his Cabinet had instructed all departments to take necessary and feasible measures to assist Indian nationals affected by the development.

The United Arab Emirates confirmed three deaths involving nationals from Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh.

Filipino caregiver Mary Anne Velasquez de Vera was killed when she was struck by shrapnel while helping her ward reach a bomb shelter in Tel Aviv, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said in a briefing late on March 1.

Another Filipino migrant worker was reported injured in Kuwait.

Migrant workers account for more than 40% of the Middle East labour force, the highest share globally, according to the International Labour Organization.

Many migrants are employed in low-income jobs and often lack strong protection, with past conflicts leaving some abandoned without wages or travel documents.

Philippine Migrant Workers Secretary, Hans Leo Cacdac said the government is prepared to order mandatory repatriation of its 2.4 million nationals in the region if violence escalates.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said such a move could have a devastating impact on both the Philippines and host countries.

“It’s not as simple as it sounds. The Filipinos run maybe 50% of the health and service capacity of the Emirates. We will have to prepare for all contingencies,” Remulla said.