Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said he has spoken to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar regarding the safety of students and other residents from the Union Territory currently in Iran amid the rapidly deteriorating situation there.
In a post on his personal X handle, Abdullah said the External Affairs Minister briefed him on the ground situation in Iran and the measures being planned by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). He expressed gratitude for the assurance that all necessary steps would be taken to safeguard the lives and interests of people from Jammu and Kashmir stranded in the country.
“Just spoke to EAM @DrSJaishankar ji about the evolving situation in Iran. He shared his assessment of the ground situation and the plans that the External Affairs Ministry is working on,” Abdullah said. “I’m grateful for his assurance that all steps will be taken to safeguard the interests and lives of students and other people from J&K who are in Iran now.”
The development comes amid heightened tensions in Iran following nationwide protests and growing international concerns over possible military intervention by the United States. According to reports, the death toll from the unrest has crossed 2,500, leading to a sharp deterioration in the overall security situation.
In response, India has advised all its nationals residing in Iran to leave the country by available means and to avoid any non-essential travel there. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has urged Indians, including students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists, to keep their travel and immigration documents ready and to register with the embassy if they are on resident visas.
Meanwhile, parents of Kashmiri students studying in Iran have appealed to the Centre for immediate intervention and safe evacuation of their children. Scores of concerned parents gathered at the Press Enclave in Srinagar, urging the government to act swiftly.
Estimates suggest that over 10,000 Indian nationals, including a significant number of students, are currently living in Iran. Authorities have said the situation is being closely monitored, and further advisories will be issued as required.
