New Delhi– As hostilities between Iran and Israel escalate, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Monday that it is closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region, particularly students in Iran.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Indian Embassy in Tehran is “continuously monitoring the security situation and engaging Indian students in Iran to ensure their safety.”
The ministry confirmed that in certain cases, Indian students are being relocated to safer areas within Iran with the assistance of the Embassy. “Other feasible options are also under examination,” the statement added. The embassy remains in touch with community leaders across Iran to coordinate efforts related to the safety and well-being of Indian citizens.
The MEA’s statement came just hours after Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reached out to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, seeking help for students from the Union Territory currently stranded in Iran.
More than 1,500 Indian students — a majority of them from Jammu and Kashmir — are currently in Iran, studying in cities such as Tehran, Shiraz, and Qom. Most are enrolled in professional courses, primarily MBBS programs.
Concerned parents have made appeals to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Jaishankar to ensure the safe return of their children.
Earlier, the Indian Embassy in Iran had issued a public advisory urging Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin to remain vigilant. A Google form was also shared on the Embassy’s X account to collect information from Indian citizens for better coordination.
“Please remember, it is important not to panic, exercise due caution, and maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Tehran,” the advisory stated. The embassy also provided a Telegram link for real-time updates and established several helpline numbers for assistance.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Israel is also on high alert, maintaining close contact with local authorities and monitoring developments as the conflict intensifies.
The rising tension follows a surprise Israeli military offensive dubbed “Operation Rising Lion,” launched on Friday morning. The operation reportedly eliminated top Iranian military commanders and damaged nuclear facilities. In response, Iran launched retaliatory airstrikes, with both sides exchanging hundreds of missiles over the past three days.
While Israel has vowed to continue its campaign, Iran has warned of severe retaliation, declaring it would “open the gates of hell” in response.
As the crisis continues to unfold, the MEA is expected to issue further advisories. Indian nationals in the region have been urged to remain alert, limit outdoor movement, and closely follow official guidance. (Source: IANS)
