Rising Tensions in West Asia Stir Anxiety Among Indian Students in Tehran
As hostilities intensify between Israel and Iran, Indian students studying in Tehran find themselves caught in a precarious situation. Around 140 Indian students at Tehran University of Medical Sciences have been witnessing escalating military actions firsthand, compelling them to seek evacuation due to growing safety concerns.
Harrowing Experiences from the Ground
One student described the unsettling atmosphere: “Every minute, the situation was worsening.” The initial shock came around 3:20 a.m. when students heard a loud explosion followed by thick black smoke visible outside their windows. This was quickly followed by multiple blasts and the ominous sound of fighter jets overhead.
“Our skies were crowded with drones, and continuous noises from dusk till dawn made it impossible to find any respite,” the student recalled. Power outages forced many to shelter in darkness within dormitories, fostering a growing sense of fear and uncertainty.
University Support Amid Crisis
Despite the escalating conflict, authorities at Tehran University of Medical Sciences have been proactive in reassuring their students. The Vice-Dean visited immediately after the blasts to check on everyone’s well-being, and the Dean followed later to offer assurances about their safety. Still, the night’s intensity left many students terrified, with some expressing they could not endure another night under such conditions.
Calls for Swift Evacuation
Indian students, hailing from various regions across India, have maintained communication with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. They conveyed trust in India’s capacity to assist and urged prompt evacuation measures. Reflecting on previous government efforts to bring back students during the Russia-Ukraine crisis, they expressed hope similar initiatives would ensure their safe return.
Indian Embassy’s Initiatives to Support Nationals
In response to the escalating crisis, the Indian Embassy in Iran has issued several helpline numbers and launched a dedicated Telegram channel exclusively for Indian nationals in Iran. The embassy emphasized caution, urging citizens to stay connected and avoid panic during these uncertain times.
The embassy communicated via social media to remind nationals that the Telegram channel is a vital resource for receiving timely updates and assistance directly from official sources.
Background: Escalating Military Actions Between Israel and Iran
On June 13, 2025, Israel launched a significant airstrike against Iranian military and nuclear targets, labeling the operation "Operation Rising Lion". The move was described by Israeli leadership as a crucial step to neutralize an imminent threat posed by Iran.
In retaliation, Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps initiated "Operation True Promise 3", a large-scale drone and missile offensive targeting Israeli fuel production and energy infrastructure. Both nations remain locked in a state of heightened conflict, with military exchanges continuing as tensions rise across the region.
What Lies Ahead for Indian Nationals?
With the situation deteriorating rapidly, Indian students and expatriates find themselves in a delicate balance between continuing their education and personal safety. While local support has been commendable, the uncertainty keeps growing.
Authorities back home have pledged support and are actively exploring evacuation plans to ensure that Indian citizens in Iran are brought back safely at the earliest possible opportunity.
