The escalating conflict between Iran and Israel has taken a dangerous turn, with direct rocket strikes impacting Israeli cities and raising fears of a broader regional war. Amidst this turmoil, the safety and well-being of Indian students in Iran have become a paramount concern for the Indian government.
Recent reports confirm that Iranian forces launched missile strikes against Tel Aviv and Haifa, resulting in casualties and prompting emergency responses. These attacks are believed to be retaliation for prior Israeli military operations targeting Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile infrastructure. In response, Israel has reportedly conducted strikes on various locations within Iran, including Tehran and Isfahan.
As the conflict intensifies, over 4,000 Indian nationals, a significant portion of whom are students, find themselves in a precarious situation in Iran. Many of these students are enrolled in medical and professional courses in cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Qom. Due to the affordability of Iranian universities and cultural similarities, a considerable number of students hail from Jammu and Kashmir.
The ongoing exchange of fire has caused immense distress and anxiety among the Indian student community. Students have reported being jolted awake by explosions and express concerns about their safety, particularly with restricted airspace complicating their return to India.
In light of these developments, the Indian government has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of its citizens. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is closely monitoring the security situation and engaging with Indian students to provide assistance. As an immediate step, Indian authorities have begun relocating students from Tehran to safer locations within Iran. Buses have been arranged to transport students from universities such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University Tehran Medical Sciences, and Iran University of Medical Sciences (Tehran). The relocation efforts are expected to extend to Qom as well.
While the immediate priority is to move students away from high-risk areas, the Indian government is also exploring other feasible options, including potential evacuation plans. However, officials have remained tight-lipped about specific details, emphasizing that any decision will be based on the ground situation and the safety and security of the students.
The situation has prompted concerns back in India, with parents of students in Iran staging protests, urging the government to expedite the evacuation process. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has also taken up the matter with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, highlighting the welfare and safety of Kashmiri students.
Beyond the immediate humanitarian concerns, the Iran-Israel conflict poses broader challenges for India. Given its strategic relationships with both countries, India finds itself in a delicate balancing act. While India's defense ties with Israel have grown in recent years, it also maintains historical and cultural connections with Iran, particularly in areas of energy security and regional trade.
The conflict has the potential to disrupt India's trade with both Iran and Israel, leading to increased transport and insurance costs. Moreover, rising crude oil prices could negatively impact the Indian economy and businesses.
In response to these challenges, the Indian government has called for restraint from both sides and has urged a return to dialogue and diplomacy. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has spoken to his counterparts in both Israel and Iran, conveying global concerns and emphasizing the need for de-escalation. India's approach is guided by its policy of strategic autonomy, aiming to maintain balanced relations with both countries while safeguarding its long-term interests and regional stability.
