Stranded Indian Students Use Armenia, Azerbaijan Routes to Exit War-Torn Iran

Indian students stranded in conflict-hit Iran are attempting to return home through neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan, as authorities work to facilitate their evacuation amid rising regional tensions.

Evacuation Through Land Borders

With limited direct flight options from Iran, students have been advised to travel via land routes into Armenia and Azerbaijan. From there, they are boarding commercial flights to India. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been assisting with coordination, visas, and transit arrangements.

Slow Pace and Logistical Challenges

Despite these efforts, the evacuation process has been slow. Many students have reported delays in securing visas, long travel times to border points, and uncertainty over crossing permissions. In some cases, students have had to wait for days before being allowed to cross into neighboring countries.

Flight Cancellations Add to Uncertainty

Several students have also faced repeated flight cancellations from cities in Armenia and Azerbaijan, disrupting their return plans. Reports indicate that some students spent between ₹60,000 and ₹80,000 on tickets, only to see flights cancelled at the last moment.

Anxiety Among Parents

The delays have caused growing concern among families in India. Parents, particularly from states like Jammu and Kashmir where many students originate, have expressed anxiety over their children’s safety as the conflict situation in Iran remains volatile.

Students Describe Stressful Conditions

Students on the ground have described stressful living conditions, with some reporting health issues and psychological strain due to the ongoing conflict and uncertainty around evacuation timelines. In certain areas, security concerns have further complicated movement.

Government Assistance Ongoing

The Indian government has stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and continuing to assist citizens wishing to leave Iran. Hundreds of Indians have already managed to cross into Armenia and Azerbaijan with official support.

Conclusion

While evacuation efforts are underway, the slow pace and logistical hurdles highlight the challenges of moving civilians out of a conflict zone. For now, families and students continue to wait anxiously for safe and timely passage back home.