New Delhi, March 12: Amidst the ongoing Middle East crisis, the Indian government is making continuous efforts to rescue its citizens stranded in Iran. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has held three discussions with his Iranian counterpart, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, as confirmed during a press briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the last conversation focused on maritime security and India‘s energy security concerns. He emphasized that it is too early to provide further details.
Jaiswal reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating the evacuation of Indian citizens and ensuring their safety. He mentioned that the Indian government is assisting those wishing to return to India via Azerbaijan and Armenia by providing visas and support for crossing borders.
Approximately 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, seafarers, business professionals, and some pilgrims, are currently in Iran. Jaiswal noted that many Indian citizens, particularly students, have already returned to India. Additionally, several Indians residing in Tehran, including students and pilgrims, have been relocated to safer cities within the country as a precautionary measure.
He further advised Indian citizens intending to leave Iran overland to adhere to the advisory issued by the Indian embassy. Many have successfully reached Azerbaijan and Armenia, from where they are taking commercial flights back to India.
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