As the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies, the Indian government has stepped up efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian students residing in Iran. With escalating tensions and exchange of missiles between the two nations, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the security situation and actively working to safeguard Indian citizens in the region.
In a recent statement, the MEA confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is continuously assessing the security landscape and engaging with Indian students to guarantee their safety. As a precautionary measure, some students are being relocated to safer locations within Iran under the embassy's supervision. The MEA has also stated that it is exploring other viable options to ensure the security of Indian nationals.
The situation has caused considerable concern among the families of the students, particularly those hailing from Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voiced his concerns to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging him to take all necessary steps to protect the students. Unofficial estimates suggest that over 1,500 Indian students, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir, are currently in Iran, with the majority pursuing professional courses like MBBS in cities such as Tehran, Shiraz, and Qom.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued advisories urging all Indian citizens and individuals of Indian origin to remain vigilant, exercise caution, and maintain regular contact with the embassy. They have also provided emergency contact numbers and created a Telegram group to facilitate communication and ensure that everyone can connect with the Indian authorities.
The ongoing conflict has disrupted air travel, with Iranian airspace closed and flights suspended from Imam Khomeini International Airport. Israel has also targeted the Mehrabad International Airport near Tehran, which serves both civilian and military purposes. This has made evacuation by air impossible. Amidst this situation, sources suggest that evacuation by ships from southern Iran is being considered as an alternative.
With flights suspended and internet access disrupted, many students are facing uncertainty and are requesting immediate evacuation or information about safe zones. Some students have reported feeling tremors from the attacks and are traumatized by the situation.
The Congress party has criticized the government's response, calling for a more proactive approach. They have urged the MEA to move beyond passive advisories and establish a coordinated evacuation mechanism to ensure the safe return of Indian students. The party highlighted the distress of students who feel stranded and unsupported, with limited information about evacuation plans or safe areas.
Despite the challenges, the Indian government has assured that it is committed to the safety and welfare of its citizens in Iran. The embassy is in contact with community leaders across Iran and is gathering data to prepare for potential evacuation if necessary. The government is also exploring all feasible options to ensure the safe passage of Indian nationals from the conflict zone.
