Amid escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel, the Government of India has initiated efforts to relocate its nationals, including students, from high-risk zones within Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Monday that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is working closely with local authorities and the Indian community to ensure the safety of Indian citizens.
“The Indian Embassy in Tehran is continuously monitoring the security situation and engaging Indian students in Iran to ensure their safety,” the MEA said in a statement. “In some cases, students are being relocated with the Embassy's facilitation to safer places within Iran,” it added.
The move comes following a barrage of Israeli missile strikes on Tehran beginning Friday, which prompted retaliatory action from Iran. In response, Iran temporarily closed its airspace, further hindering internal movement.
According to figures cited by AFP, as of 2022, there were approximately 10,000 Indian nationals in Iran, including more than 2,000 students.
In Srinagar on Sunday, anxious parents of students studying in Iran staged demonstrations, appealing to the Indian government for their children’s evacuation. The protests came amid mounting concerns over the safety of Indian citizens caught in the conflict zone.
Also read: Israel, Iran exchange fire for third straight day, over 230 dead
The Indian Embassy has also been coordinating with local community leaders for additional support and outreach. “The Indian Embassy is also in contact with community leaders regarding welfare and safety,” the MEA said.
In a precautionary advisory, the Embassy had earlier urged Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin in Iran to avoid non-essential movement, stay alert, and remain in contact with the Embassy. “Please remember, it is important not to panic, exercise due caution and maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Tehran,” the advisory read.
The Embassy has also launched a dedicated Telegram channel and a Google form via its official X account to streamline communication and assistance for Indians still in Iran.
“Kindly note that this Telegram Link is ONLY for those Indian Nationals who are currently in Iran,” it stated, while also sharing emergency contact numbers for immediate support.
Meanwhile, India has reiterated its call for restraint and diplomatic engagement in the region. “Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. New Delhi had earlier conveyed its readiness to “extend all possible support” and urged both nations to avoid further escalation.
The Iranian health ministry has reported at least 224 deaths from the Israeli strikes, while Israeli authorities have confirmed over a dozen fatalities since Iran launched its counteroffensive.
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