Amid growing uncertainty in Iran, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has begun preparations to bring back Indian nationals who wish to return home. The move comes a day after the Indian Embassy in Tehran advised Indians to leave the country using any available means of transport, including commercial flights, as the situation continues to evolve.
Government sources said the evacuation planning gained momentum after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart on Wednesday evening. The discussion focused on the safety of Indian citizens and the need to remain in close contact as conditions on the ground change rapidly.
According to unofficial estimates, around 10,000 Indian nationals are currently living in Iran. This includes medical students, seminary students, nearly 2,000 fishermen, as well as pilgrims and business professionals spread across different regions of the country.
A significant number of Indian citizens in Iran, particularly medical students, are from Jammu and Kashmir. In response, the Jammu and Kashmir government has appointed a nodal officer to coordinate with the Centre and diplomatic authorities. Student groups have indicated that the first batch of students may return to India as early as Friday.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he personally spoke with Jaishankar, who assured him that all necessary steps are being taken to protect the interests of students from the Union Territory caught in the current turmoil.
The Indian Embassy in Iran has urged all Indian nationals to register with the mission to help authorities track and assist them. However, limited internet connectivity has slowed the registration process. To address this, family members in India have been allowed to complete the registration on behalf of their relatives through the MEA’s official portal.
There has been some relief on the travel front, as Iran has reopened its airspace to civilian flights after a temporary closure. Student associations said the Indian Embassy has collected documents and passports, and students have been asked to remain ready for departure as evacuation plans take shape.
Meanwhile, Indian officials are also assessing the possible impact of proposed U.S. trade measures against countries doing business with Iran. The government has clarified that India’s trade with Iran is limited and largely humanitarian in nature, and New Delhi is awaiting detailed orders before drawing conclusions.
As reported by usaharmony.com, the government’s priority remains the safety and well-being of Indian citizens abroad. With diplomatic channels active and evacuation preparations underway, authorities are closely monitoring developments to ensure a smooth and safe return for those who choose to come back.
