New Delhi: A group of Indian nationals arrived safely in Delhi on Friday evening after leaving Iran amid a volatile security situation, recalling harrowing experiences during their stay and expressing gratitude to the Indian government for ensuring their safe return.

The evacuation comes against the backdrop of widespread protests across Iran, an internet shutdown, and a crackdown on demonstrators by the Iranian regime led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Reports suggest that more than 3,000 people have died in the nationwide unrest so far, making the environment extremely precarious for foreign nationals residing in the country.

Dangerous Conditions in Iran

Indians who returned described the conditions in Iran as unsafe and unpredictable. Many recalled the difficulties they faced while trying to move about in cities affected by demonstrations.

“When we went outside, the protesters would come in front of the car. They would cause a little trouble,” one national said. “The internet was shut down, which meant we couldn’t communicate with our families, so we were a little worried. We couldn’t even contact the embassy easily.”

Students and professionals stranded in Iran emphasized that the lack of connectivity heightened anxiety, particularly for those trying to reach their families back in India. Despite these challenges, Indian nationals expressed relief that they were able to leave the country safely, crediting the government’s coordination and the embassy’s timely advisories for facilitating their return.

“The conditions are bad there. The Government of India is cooperating a lot, and the Embassy provided us with information on leaving Iran as early as possible,” one Indian national told news agency ANI, adding in Hindi, “Modi ji hai toh har cheez mumkin hai” (With Modi ji, everything is possible).

Government Response and Evacuation Efforts

In the days leading up to the evacuation, the Indian government issued advisories urging all nationals in Iran—including students, pilgrims, businesspeople, and tourists—to leave the country. The focus was particularly on students, given their large numbers and vulnerability in the face of security concerns.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran played a critical role in informing citizens about safe travel options, arranging transportation where needed, and coordinating with authorities to ensure an orderly departure. Students pursuing higher education in Iran, especially in medical and technical institutions, were closely monitored to facilitate a smooth exit.

A resident of Jammu and Kashmir, whose family member was returning from Iran, praised the government’s efforts: “The protests there were dangerous. The Indian government has made a very good effort and brought the students back safely.”

Family members at the Indira Gandhi International Airport also expressed gratitude, emphasizing the sense of relief and reassurance provided by the government. One family awaiting a relative who had gone to Iran for pilgrimage noted, “We always had faith in the Indian government, and today, our trust has been rewarded.”

Life in Iran Amid Protests

While many returning Indians described dangerous and tense conditions, some reported that the situation had stabilized in certain areas. A student pursuing an MBBS at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences said, “The situation there is normal,” although he acknowledged that the internet clampdown was still in effect, limiting access to communication.

The Iranian government’s measures—arrests, increased security presence, and restrictions on movement—appear to have temporarily subdued large-scale protests, though connectivity remains an issue. News agency Reuters noted a “very slight rise” in internet connectivity, suggesting a tentative relaxation of the clampdown.

Impact on Indian Nationals

The unrest in Iran affected not only communication but also daily life for Indian students and residents, from accessing essentials to moving safely through city streets. Many reported a constant sense of caution and uncertainty during their stay. The evacuation provided a critical relief, allowing them to reconnect with their families and resume a semblance of normalcy.

Takeaways

The return of Indian nationals underscores the importance of timely government advisories, embassy coordination, and proactive diplomatic engagement in safeguarding citizens abroad. It also highlights the challenges faced by foreign students and residents in politically unstable regions, where routine activities can become risky and communication limited.

For the Indians evacuated from Iran, the experience was a mix of stress, vigilance, and relief. Upon arrival in Delhi, many expressed gratitude for the Indian government’s swift and decisive measures that ensured their safety and helped them return home without harm.

The Indian government, meanwhile, continues to monitor the situation in Iran, maintaining advisories and assistance for any nationals who may still be in the country, ensuring that the welfare and safety of its citizens remain a priority.