Srinagar: A young couple was excited to plan their vacation out of Saudi Arabia. Another expat hoped to visit his mother in India, who was gravely ill. But now, they—and many like them—feel trapped. Airports across the Gulf, including Dubai International, have closed following recent airstrikes involving the US and Israel in Iran. Iran retaliated by targeting US allies in the region, escalating the unrest.
Over nine million Indians live in the Middle East, working in various fields like engineering and medicine. India has advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel and stay alert. Mudasir Ahmad, about to book his tickets, said, “We stopped everything after the advisory came. We’re safe online, but the attacks have caused panic and limited our movements. It’s worrying.”
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed concern about the situation, urging all parties to exercise restraint and prioritize civilian safety.
In the UAE, an Indian teacher near Dubai Airport shared a terrifying experience. His children were frightened as smoke filled the sky from explosions. “It feels like I’m a refugee here,” he said, reflecting on a decade spent in the region.
Social media is buzzing with calls for help, with many urging Prime Minister Modi to assist those stranded. Indian students in Iran, predominantly from Jammu and Kashmir, have posted emotional videos, asking for evacuation as fear grows amid ongoing explosions.
A member of Parliament, Aga Ruhullah, stated that they are in touch with the MEA and waiting for airspace and borders to reopen for evacuations. “We’ve been told to gather students in Qom for when it’s safe to evacuate,” he added.
The Indian embassy plans to begin relocation efforts for students stuck mainly at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan, president of the All India Medical Students Association, mentioned that safe relocation will start soon.
One expat described the chaos when drones hit a nearby Saudi Aramco facility, causing panic and disruption. “It was a loud explosion. The sky filled with smoke,” he recalled.
Meanwhile, Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh from the Iranian consulate confirmed that Iran is coordinating with India for student evacuation. He mentioned that students can leave through land borders without needing an exit permit, carrying only their passports, but must wait since flights are currently unavailable due to security concerns.
In times of conflict, it’s vital for communities to support each other. Many are sharing updates and solidarity on social platforms, creating a buzz about the urgent need for safety and assistance.
For those interested in deeper insights into international crises like this, resources from organizations such as the United Nations offer valuable perspectives on humanitarian issues and refugee support.
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AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI, MIDDLE EAST CRISIS, IRAN WAR, INDIANS STRANDED IN IRAN, INDIAN EXPATS FEAR FOR SAFETY AS IRAN-WAR SPREADS TO MIDDLE EAST
