As the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies, India has initiated the evacuation of its citizens, primarily students, from Iran. The escalating tensions, marked by missile strikes and airspace closures, have prompted the Indian government to take swift action to ensure the safety of its nationals.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been working with local Iranian authorities to relocate Indian citizens to safer locations within the country. Buses have been arranged to move students from universities in Tehran, including Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University-Tehran Medical Sciences, and Iran University of Medical Sciences, to cities like Qom, which is located 148 km away from Tehran. According to NDTV, students from Shahid Beheshti University are also among those being evacuated.

Recent reports indicate that the first batch of approximately 100 Indian nationals has reached the Armenian border, signaling a significant step in the evacuation process. With Iranian airspace closed, land routes are being utilized to move Indian citizens to safety. The Indian government is in talks with Armenian authorities to facilitate the entry and passage of these individuals. Border crossings to Turkey and Azerbaijan are also open; however, these routes may be less convenient due to existing tensions.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been actively engaged with his counterparts in Armenia and the United Arab Emirates to coordinate evacuation efforts and discuss the regional situation. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued advisories urging Indian nationals to stay in touch, avoid unnecessary movement, and remain updated through official channels. A Google form has been circulated for citizens to register, and a Telegram channel has been created to relay verified updates from the Indian mission.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the concerns of the students themselves, many of whom are from Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. They have expressed feelings of fear and anxiety amidst the ongoing conflict. There are approximately 1,500 to 2,000 Indian students in Iran and another 1,200 to 1,500 in Israel.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the situation and has activated advisories and check-ins for Indian citizens in both Iran and Israel. While air evacuation is not currently possible due to airspace closures, a maritime evacuation plan via Bandar Abbas is reportedly under consideration.

The conflict has raised concerns about the safety and future prospects of Indian students studying in the region. Consultants note that students are worried about the value of their degrees amidst the rising instability. Under current National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, students cannot transfer to another university mid-course unless a special exception is granted.