Under the Indian government’s emergency evacuation initiative Operation Sindhu, 110 students were successfully airlifted from Iran as the nation faced escalating military attacks amid its conflict with Israel. Students, many of whom were studying medicine, arrived in Delhi on Thursday via Armenia and recounted terrifying scenes of destruction. “We saw missiles in the sky, bombs in our neighbourhood, and our building shook from the blasts,” said MBBS student Mir Khalif, describing the harrowing experience. With emotions still raw, several students expressed deep gratitude to the Indian government and the Ministry of External Affairs for ensuring their safe return.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh personally received the returning students at the Delhi airport and praised the swift coordination between Indian missions in Tehran, Armenia, and Turkmenistan. “This is a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad,” he stated. The evacuation was prompted by heavy bombardment in Tehran and other Iranian cities, which forced many Indian nationals—especially students from Jammu & Kashmir—to seek shelter. “Our neighbourhood was attacked, and when the Indian embassy team arrived, it felt like we were being rescued by family,” said Varta, a student from Kashmir.

Students described Iran as a war zone, with drones and missiles falling within view. “Tehran is in ruins,” said Ali Akbar, a medical student from Delhi. Families of those evacuated expressed relief but also pleaded for the safe return of others still stranded. “Our son is safe, but many others are still there. We urge the government to bring them home soon,” said Parvez Alam, whose son studied in Urmia. Minister Singh confirmed that further flights are being prepared, with round-the-clock helplines open for emergency support. As the crisis unfolds, Operation Sindhu remains a vital lifeline for Indian citizens caught in the crossfire abroad.