India evacuates students from Iran as Israel–Iran conflict deepens

As tensions between Israel and Iran intensify, India has begun evacuating its nationals from high-risk zones in Iran. On June 16, around 100 Indian students successfully crossed into Armenia, marking the first phase of the evacuation amid fears of further escalation.

Among the affected are thousands of Indian medical students based in Iranian cities like Tehran and Qom. Families back home say communication has become difficult following strikes in Tehran, forcing many universities to suspend exams and relocate students to safer regions.

“She says she’s safe, but the uncertainty is scary,” said the father of a student from Karnataka, expressing concern over the situation.

In Kashmir, distressed families have appealed to the government to expedite evacuation efforts. One student in Tehran described the situation as growing worse “by the minute,” with drones reportedly filling the skies during Iranian retaliation to Israeli strikes.

Over 120 students from Jammu & Kashmir remain stranded, while the Ministry of External Affairs is working with embassies in Tehran and Yerevan to coordinate their safe passage.

Indian embassies have set up 24/7 helplines and are using messaging platforms like Telegram to share safety instructions. Universities such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences are shifting students away from targeted zones, while the Indian government is exploring alternative exit routes through Armenia and the UAE.

Meanwhile, Indian nationals in Israel also remain under high alert. Students and caregivers have taken shelter in bunkers amid continued missile threats. Indian associations in Israel are coordinating with local authorities to ensure safety and emergency support.