The rapidly deteriorating conflict between Iran and Israel has once again placed hundreds of young students from Jammu and Kashmir in grave uncertainty. For families across the Valley, the war unfolding thousands of kilometres away has suddenly become painfully personal. Their sons and daughters, many of them medical students pursuing education in Iranian universities, now find themselves stranded in the country.

The anxiety is palpable. Phone calls from Iran describing explosions, air raid sirens and disrupted supplies have left parents sleepless and fearful. They spend long hours refreshing news updates or waiting for a reassuring message from their children. For them, this is no distant geopolitical conflict. It is deeply personal.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said the Union Territory government is in touch with the Centre regarding the evacuation of students. National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has also voiced concern. Meanwhile, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti has appealed directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to personally intervene and ensure the safe return of students stranded in Iran.

During earlier crises in West Asia and Eastern Europe, New Delhi organised large-scale evacuation missions to bring Indians home. Such operations not only rescue citizens but also reassure families that their government stands firmly behind them in moments of danger.

A similar swift and coordinated effort is needed now. Hundreds of Kashmiri students are believed to be spread across several Iranian cities, including Tehran, Shiraz, Kerman and other locations, some far from major airports. Ensuring their safety requires careful coordination between India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian embassy in Tehran, and local authorities on the ground.

Evacuation in a conflict situation is never simple. Yet these obstacles cannot become excuses for delay. Every passing day adds to the stress faced by students and their families. The young Kashmiris studying in Iran left home to pursue education and build futures as doctors, engineers and professionals. They should not have to face the dangers of war while chasing those dreams.

© Greater Kashmir