Indian Students Back from Iran Thank Government, Urge Support for Return Journey

New Delhi | June 19, 2025 : A group of 110 Indian students studying at Urmia Medical University in Iran landed safely in New Delhi early Thursday morning under 'Operation Sindhu', an evacuation mission launched by the Indian government amidst the escalating Israel-Iran conflict.

While the students expressed deep gratitude toward the Indian government and embassy officials for facilitating their safe return, they raised serious concerns about the inadequate travel arrangements made for their onward journey to Jammu and Kashmir.

The students, most of whom are residents of Kashmir, said they were exhausted after a harrowing evacuation journey that began in Tehran, moved through Armenia and Doha, and concluded with a flight to Delhi. Ali, one of the evacuees, described the ordeal: “It was a difficult journey for us. There were a lot of attacks, mostly in Tehran. At one point, a missile landed near our bus. We were very scared.”

Despite their gratitude to the Indian embassy for arranging the complex transit route, the students were dismayed by the condition of the buses provided to take them from Delhi to their hometowns in Jammu and Kashmir. According to them, the buses were not fit for long-distance travel.

Shaikh Afsa, a Kashmiri student, said, “We’re extremely tired, and traveling back in such poorly maintained buses is very difficult. The condition is not stable or safe.” She added that she had reached out to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for alternative transport arrangements.

Responding to the students’ concerns, the office of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the situation and assured that it is working in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) to provide “proper deluxe buses” for their comfort and safety.

Another student highlighted the broader concern surrounding the ongoing conflict: “We want this war to end. Our studies, especially our practical classes, are being affected. We need to return to Iran soon to continue our education.”

The conflict, which has claimed over 250 lives so far—including more than 220 in Iran—was triggered by Israel’s military offensive, “Operation Rising Lion,” launched last Friday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the campaign targets Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. “We are striking the Ayatollahs’ regime with great force... We are attacking nuclear installations, missiles, command centres, and the symbols of the regime,” he said in a video address.

With over 4,000 Indian nationals currently residing in Iran—half of whom are students—the government has indicated that more evacuation efforts may be underway if the situation continues to deteriorate.