During an inter-ministerial briefing in the capital, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that more than 1,200 Indian nationals have been safely evacuated from Iran so far, including 845 students-the largest group among those rescued.
UK invites 35 nations including India for Hormuz crisis talks
New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, India has launched a large-scale evacuation operation to bring its citizens home from Iran. At the same time, the United Kingdom has invited India to participate in a 35-nation dialogue on the evolving situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
During an inter-ministerial briefing in the capital, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that more than 1,200 Indian nationals have been safely evacuated from Iran so far, including 845 students-the largest group among those rescued.
He added that 996 evacuees were transported to Armenia, while 204 were moved to Azerbaijan. In coordination with Indian missions and local authorities in both countries, the MEA has ensured their safety and arranged for onward travel to India. Adequate support systems have been put in place to assist citizens during transit.
India to Join Hormuz Dialogue
India has accepted the United Kingdom’s invitation to join a high-level 35-nation consultation on the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will represent India at the meeting, which will be held virtually.
Students Form Majority of Evacuees
Students account for the majority of those evacuated. With direct air routes from Iran to India disrupted, the government implemented an alternative evacuation plan via Armenia and Azerbaijan. Indian embassies in both countries were mobilized to provide immediate assistance, ensuring safe transit and eventual repatriation.
PM Modi Engages Global Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively engaging with world leaders amid the crisis. On March 28, he held a telephonic conversation with Mohammed bin Salman.
The two leaders discussed the regional situation in detail. Prime Minister Modi condemned attacks on critical energy infrastructure and emphasized the need to maintain freedom of navigation and ensure secure shipping lanes in the region.
Surge in Returnees from West Asia
As the conflict enters its second month, there has been a sharp rise in the number of Indians returning from West Asia. According to official figures, over 600,000 passengers have returned to India so far.
The government continues to closely monitor the situation, working in coordination with multiple ministries to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian citizens abroad.
