Are Indian students being safely relocated in Iran amid rising tensions?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Indian students are being relocated to safer areas in Iran.
- The MEA is monitoring the situation closely.
- Over 1,500 students are currently stranded.
- Parents have reached out to government officials for assistance.
- The conflict has raised significant concerns for foreign nationals.
New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) Amidst the intensifying conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the recent hostilities between Iran and Israel, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a statement emphasizing that India is diligently observing the security dynamics to safeguard its citizens in both nations.
In a post shared on the social media platform X, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is "constantly monitoring the security landscape and engaging with Indian students in Iran to ensure their safety."
The statement further elaborated that "in certain instances, students are being relocated with the assistance of the Embassy to more secure locations within Iran," and mentioned that "other viable alternatives are also under consideration."
The Embassy is actively communicating with community leaders throughout Iran concerning the welfare and security of Indian nationals, as stated by the MEA.
This announcement from the MEA follows a conversation between Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, and S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, regarding the situation of students from the Union Territory stranded in Iran.
Currently, over 1,500 Indian students, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir, find themselves in Iran without a clear pathway home.
Parents have reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and S. Jaishankar for assistance in ensuring the safe return of these students.
The majority of these students, located in Tehran, Shiraz, and Qom, are enrolled in professional courses, predominantly MBBS.
Previously, the Indian Embassy in Iran advised all Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin to stay vigilant and shared a Google form on its X account for individuals to submit their details.
"Please remember, it is crucial to stay calm, exercise caution, and maintain communication with the Indian Embassy in Tehran," the Embassy advised.
Additionally, a Telegram link was provided for Indian citizens to join and receive updates from the mission.
The conflict escalated recently when Israel initiated "Operation Rising Lion" with an unexpected attack on Friday morning, targeting Iran’s military leadership and nuclear facilities.
In retaliation, Iran launched air strikes, leading both nations to exchange hundreds of missiles over the past three days.
Israel has indicated that its campaign will continue to escalate, while Iran has vowed to unleash severe retaliation.
Furthermore, several helpline numbers have been established by Indian missions in both Iran and Israel.
The Indian Embassy in Israel has stated that it remains in close contact with local authorities and is diligently monitoring the situation.
As the situation develops, the MEA is expected to issue continuous advisories.
In the interim, Indian nationals in the region are urged to stay alert, adhere to official guidance, and minimize outdoor activities.
This conflict not only raises significant global diplomatic concerns but also instills anxiety among thousands of foreign nationals, including Indians, who reside and work in Iran.