Srinagar, June 16, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday expressed concern over the safety of Kashmiri students stranded in Iran due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran following recent Israeli airstrikes. In a telephonic conversation with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Abdullah sought urgent measures to ensure the welfare and security of these students.
In a post on X, Abdullah confirmed the dialogue, stating, “Just spoke to DrSJaishankar regarding the situation in Iran, particularly the welfare and safety of Kashmiri students in the country. The Hon Minister assured me that MEAIndia is in close contact with their counterparts in Iran and will take all necessary steps to safeguard all Indian students in Iran.”
The Indian Embassy in Tehran is monitoring the situation and coordinating with Iranian authorities to ensure the safety of Indian nationals, including students at universities such as Shahid Beheshti University and Iran University of Medical Sciences. Reports indicate that approximately 1300 Kashmiri students are pursuing higher education, primarily in medicine and professional courses, in Iran.
The call for action intensified after an Israeli airstrike reportedly hit the Hujat Dost Ali hostel in Tehran, housing Kashmiri students, resulting in minor injuries. Jammu and Kashmir MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi wrote to Jaishankar, urging either relocation within Iran or evacuation once airspace permits. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, in a post on X, described the incident as “deeply disturbing,” highlighting the fear among students and their families in Kashmir.
Parents of the students have appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jaishankar for immediate evacuation, citing the “traumatized and panicked” state of their children amid ongoing Israeli raids. Abdullah noted that his government is in constant touch with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and is considering evacuation based on the ground situation, prioritizing student safety.
The MEA has assured that it is taking every possible step to protect Indian citizens in Iran, including maintaining communication with students and their families. The situation remains fluid, with internet disruptions and unclear safety protocols adding to the anxiety.
Abdullah’s engagement underscores the urgency of safeguarding Kashmiri students amid the Iran-Israel conflict, with the Indian government monitoring developments to ensure their safe return.
