Indian students in Tehran relocated to safer places

India has relocated students from the Iranian capital, Tehran, to safer locations outside the city even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with leaders of several West Asian countries to ensure the safety of nearly one crore Indians in the region.

The Indian Embassy in Iran said, “Due to the heightened risk perception in Tehran, most Indian students who were in the city have been relocated to safer locations.”

The Embassy has arranged transportation, food and accommodation for them. Only a small number of students who declined the offer remained in Tehran. Around 9,000 Indians including students are learnt to be stuck in Iran. The exact number of Indian students in Iran is not immediately known.

Meanwhile, PM Modi spoke with key leaders from the Gulf region this afternoon. He held a phone call with the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik, and also spoke with the Crown Prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled. During both discussions, the PM expressed concern over the attacks in the respective countries and discussed the security of the Indian community residing there.

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PM Modi also spoke with the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. He condemned the attacks on Qatar and thanked the Amir for the support extended to the Indian community.

In the last 48 hours, the PM has spoken with leaders of the UAE, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Indian embassies and consulates in the affected countries remained in close contact with Indian nationals, issuing regular advisories as required. They had extended all possible assistance to those stranded by the conflict.

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi advised Indian nationals to avoid unnecessary travel, remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines and advisories issued by the UAE authorities and the Embassy.