‘We saw drones, missiles…’ evacuated Indian students describe escalating Iran-Israel conflict

By Admin

19 Jun, 2025

As tensions between Iran and Israel flare up, bringing the Middle East to the edge of a broader conflict, over 100 Indian students stranded in Iran were safely brought back to India under a swift and strategic evacuation effort named Operation Sindhu. The first group of 110 Indian nationals arrived in New Delhi early Thursday morning, following a long and emotional journey from conflict-hit zones in Iran.

Fear and Gratitude at the Heart of the Evacuation

Upon landing in Delhi, the students, visibly relieved and emotional, shared their firsthand experiences of the escalating conflict. Many recounted scenes of drones, missiles, and sleepless nights filled with fear. Yet, alongside their fears, they expressed deep gratitude to the Indian government for ensuring their safe return.

“I am happy that I am back to our country. We didn't see any such thing in Urmia, but in other places across Iran, the situation was bad,” said one student. “The Government of India helped a lot, which is why we are back home.”

Another student, a final year MBBS candidate from Urmia University, recalled, “We saw drones and missiles. We were scared… We are happy to return to India and are very thankful to the government of India, especially the Ministry of External Affairs... Our parents were also worried, but now they are happy.”

The Road to Safety: Operation Sindhu

In light of the worsening Iran-Israel conflict, the Indian government launched Operation Sindhu, an emergency evacuation plan to rescue its nationals from the troubled region. The Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement, said: “In view of the deteriorating situation as a result of the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the Government of India has been taking various steps over the last several days for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.”

On Tuesday, the Indian Embassy coordinated the relocation of 110 students from Tehran to Armenia by land. The group then flew from Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, and landed in New Delhi as part of the first official evacuation flight.

Voices from the Ground: Hope Amidst Horror

Yasir Gaffar, one of the evacuated students, described his ordeal: “We saw the missiles passing by and the loud sounds at night… I am happy to reach India... I haven’t given up on my dreams... When the situation improves, we will return to Iran.”

Mariam Roz, another student, appreciated the embassy’s readiness: “The Indian Embassy had already prepared everything for us. We did not face any issues. We are travelling for three days, so we are tired... The situation was not so bad in Urmia when we left. We would see missiles from the windows of our dorm.”

For many, the return was not just about personal relief, but also a reflection on the broader tragedy of war. “I am very happy. I cannot express in words how happy I am to be finally able to meet my family,” shared another student. “The situation in Iran is very bad. The people there are like us; there are small children who are suffering. War is not a good thing. It kills humanity.”

A Timely Rescue in Troubled Times

Operation Sindhu showcases the Indian government's commitment to the safety of its citizens, no matter where they are. While the conflict between Iran and Israel continues to pose challenges for peace and stability in the region, the successful evacuation of these students stands as a testament to timely diplomacy and human compassion.