More than 100 Indian students, majority of them are medical aspirants studying in Iran, landed safely at Delhi Airport in the early morning on Thursday after being evacuated amid the rapidly intensifying Iran-Israel conflict.
The special Air India flight, arranged under the Indian government’s emergency evacuation initiative, brought back students from cities including Iran’s Capital Tehran and Qom, Shiraz, which had witnessed increasing unrest due to both side military escalations.
“We Could Hear Distant Explosions”
Speaking to the media at Indira Gandhi International Airport, several returning students shared their distressing experiences during the past week. Many said they could hear distant bombings at night and were advised to stay indoors due to fears of airstrikes or local unrest.
“We were studying when sirens went off. Our hostel staff told us not to go out, and we didn’t have access to proper updates. We could hear distant explosions and had no idea what might happen next,” said Anjali Kumari, a second-year medical student at Tehran University.
Appreciation for Swift Response
Most students praised the Indian Embassy in Tehran for staying in close contact and coordinating the evacuation.
“The embassy officials were constantly guiding us on WhatsApp and calls. They arranged buses to take us to the airport, and security was tight. We are very thankful,” said Ahmed Rehman from Bihar, who had been studying medicine in Shiraz.
What Triggered the Evacuation?
Tensions escalated sharply after a missile exchange between Iran-backed groups and Israel, following attacks near the Golan Heights and suspected Israeli strikes on Iranian military sites in Syria and Iraq. Iran issued warnings of retaliation, prompting many foreign nationals, including Indians, to seek urgent repatriation.
The Indian government, under Operation Suraksha, initiated the evacuation effort in coordination with Iran’s civil aviation authorities. This follows a pattern of India’s quick responses in conflict zones, such as Operation Ganga (Ukraine) and Vande Bharat Mission (COVID-19 pandemic).
Parents’ Relief and Emotional Reunions
Heartwarming scenes unfolded at the Delhi airport as parents and relatives tearfully welcomed the returnees.
“I hadn’t slept for four days,” said Preeti Sharma, whose daughter was in Qom. “We kept watching the news and praying. I’m so grateful to the government and the embassy.”
Uncertainty Over Returning to Iran
Many students expressed concern about their academic futures. Although their safety is currently assured, the uncertain timeline for resolution of the Iran-Israel conflict has cast doubt over when or if they can resume studies.
“Our colleges have shifted some classes online, but we don’t know what’s next. We hope for peace and to return soon,” said Manish Tiwari, another student.
Government Statement
In a press release, the Ministry of External Affairs stated:
“The Government of India remains committed to the safety of Indian nationals abroad. We are closely monitoring the situation in Iran and maintaining regular contact with our citizens still there.”
As of now, more than 500 Indian nationals, including students and workers, remain in different parts of Iran. The government is assessing further evacuation flights based on the evolving situation.
Quick Facts:
- Evacuation Date: June 19, 2025 (early morning arrival in Delhi)
- Number Evacuated: Over 100 Indian students
- Conflict Region: Iran-Israel escalation in the Middle East
- Operation Name: Operation Suraksha
- Cities Affected: Tehran, Qom, Shiraz (among others)
- Support Provided: Indian Embassy coordination, flight assistance, emergency transport
