Growing Fear Among Indian Students in Iran After Israeli Strikes
Amid escalating conflict following Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear and military sites near Tehran, Indian students studying in Iran have appealed to their government for urgent evacuation assistance. The strikes, which occurred in the early hours, have sent tremors through the city and stirred anxiety among the thousands of international students residing there.
Students Share Their Harrowing Experiences
"We felt the ground shake, and it was truly frightening," shared Tabiya Zahra, a second-year MBBS student from Kashmir enrolled at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS). Although she and her peers currently consider themselves safe, the uncertainty of the situation and disrupted communication channels due to poor internet connectivity have only added to their distress.
University officials have advised students to stay calm, but concrete guidance on safer locations remains unavailable, fueling growing concern among the student community.
Embassy Takes Precautionary Measures
Another student, Alisha Rizvi from Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, mentioned that the Indian embassy has initiated the process of collecting local contact information and addresses via email. This effort aims to enable quick response and facilitate emergency evacuation if the situation worsens.
Flights from Imam Khomeini International Airport have been suspended following the closure of Tehran’s airspace in response to the hostilities.
Background: Rising Regional Tensions
The Israeli strikes targeted multiple Iranian sites, justified by Israeli officials on the grounds of an imminent threat related to Iran’s nuclear program. These developments come at a sensitive time, as Iran and the United States engage in nuclear deal negotiations that could potentially ease severe economic sanctions on Tehran in exchange for curbing uranium enrichment.
In retaliation, Iran launched a drone attack against Israeli targets, heightening the volatility in the region.
Community Appeals for Government Support
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has formally called upon the External Affairs Ministry for prompt assistance. Association convenor Nasir Khuehami reported numerous calls from anxious students and families. He emphasized the urgency for the government to prepare for timely intervention should evacuation become necessary.
Summary of Current Situation
- Israeli airstrikes struck Iranian nuclear and military sites near Tehran, causing tremors felt by residents.
- Indian students report feeling scared but currently safe; communication challenges persist.
- University advised calm but did not specify safer zones.
- Indian embassy is gathering student contact information in anticipation of potential evacuation.
- Tehran’s airspace closed; flights suspended at major international airport.
- Tensions escalate amid ongoing Iran-US nuclear talks and retaliatory drone attacks by Iran.
The situation remains fluid, with many Indian students in Iran watching anxiously as diplomatic and military developments unfold.
