Rising Tensions in West Asia Impact Indian Students in Tehran
Amid escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, Indian students studying in Tehran have described harrowing experiences during the initial hours of the military clashes. With skies reportedly thick with drones and continuous sounds of blasts, fears among the student community continue to mount as they await a safe evacuation.
On the Ground in Tehran: Students Recall Terrifying Moments
Approximately 140 Indian students from institutions such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Islamic Azad University found themselves caught in the crossfire as the conflict intensified. Many recounted hearing loud explosions early on a recent Friday morning, accompanied by black smoke and fighter jets flying overhead.
- One student recalled hearing a blast around 3:20 a.m., followed by more explosions and drone activity filling the skies.
- Others described enduring a complete blackout while sheltering inside their dormitories amid ongoing aerial activity.
The atmosphere was tense and frightening, with students voicing concerns over the uncertain situation and their safety.
University and Embassy Offer Support Amid Crisis
Despite the turmoil, university authorities have stepped forward to support the students. Senior officials, including the Vice-Dean and Dean of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, reportedly visited students to provide reassurance and check on their well-being during the critical early hours.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Iran has acted swiftly by sharing multiple helpline numbers and creating a dedicated Telegram link to maintain communication with Indian nationals in the country.
"We request all Indian nationals in Iran to join the official Telegram group to receive updated information and guidance," the Embassy stated, emphasizing that the channel is exclusive for Indian citizens currently in Iran.
The Embassy has urged students to remain calm, exercise caution, and stay connected for coordinated assistance.
Call for Evacuation and Government Support
Indian students expressed a strong desire to be evacuated promptly, underscoring their trust in the Indian government’s capacity to ensure their safe return. Reference was made to prior successful repatriations, such as the efforts made during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Background: Escalation of the Israel-Iran Conflict
The conflict escalated sharply on June 13 when Israel launched a significant airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites in an operation named "Operation Rising Lion." The Israeli leadership framed the action as a decisive step to counter what it called an existential threat from Iran.
In retaliation, Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) launched its own operation, "Operation True Promise 3," involving drone and missile strikes targeting Israeli fuel production and energy supply facilities. This cycle of aggression has heightened regional instability and directly affected foreign nationals in the area.
The Road Ahead: Ensuring Safety for Indian Nationals
With tensions unlikely to subside in the immediate future, the focus remains on the safe evacuation of Indian students and nationals caught amid the conflict. Continuous coordination between the Indian Embassy, university authorities, and local agencies seeks to monitor the evolving situation and provide timely assistance.
For now, those in Tehran are holding on to hope and the reassurances provided by officials, all while enduring the unsettling reality of drone-filled skies and ongoing military operations.
