The external affairs ministry said that students are being relocated with the Embassy’s facilitation to safer places within Iran.
India has begun relocating its citizens, including students, from high-risk zones in Iran amid escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel. As tensions soared, India’s foreign ministry confirmed on Monday that its embassy in Tehran was working to ensure the safety of Indian nationals.
“The Indian Embassy in Tehran is continuously monitoring the security situation and engaging Indian students in Iran to ensure their safety,” a statement from external affairs ministrysaid.
“In some cases, students are being relocated with the Embassy’s facilitation to safer places within Iran,” it added.
The development comes as Israel launched a wave of attacks on Iran beginning Friday, to which Tehran responded with its retaliatory strikes, flaring up tensions in the Middle East.
The Indian Embassy is also in contact “with community leaders regarding welfare and safety,” said the statement.
Iran had also temporarily closed its airspace during the exchange of fire, further complicating movement within the country.
According to past government data cited by AFP, about 10,000 Indian nationals, including over 2,000 students, lived in Iran as of 2022.
India calls for de-escalation
India, which maintains diplomatic ties with both Iran and Israel, has called for de-escalation.
“Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
New Delhi had earlier said it was ready “to extend all possible support” to both countries and urged them “to avoid any escalatory steps”.
Iran’s health ministry has reported at least 224 deaths from Israeli strikes. Israeli authorities have reported more than a dozen fatalities since Iran began its counterattacks on Friday.
Earlier, the Indian Embassy has issued an advisory urging Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin to remain alert and avoid non-essential movement.
In the advisory, the embassy asked individuals to stay updated through its official social media channels and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. “Please remember, it is important not to panic, exercise due caution and maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Tehran,” the advisory said.
To streamline communication and assistance, the embassy shared a Google form via its X (formerly Twitter) account, asking Indian citizens in Iran to submit their details.
Additionally, India has launched a dedicated Telegram channel to provide timely updates on the situation.
“Kindly note that this Telegram Link is ONLY for those Indian Nationals who are currently in Iran,” the embassy clarified in its post on X. It also shared emergency contact information for citizens requiring immediate assistance.
About The Author
