550 Indians reach Armenia, 90 enter Azerbaijan from Iran as conflict escalates, MEA says

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said hundreds of Indian nationals have moved out of Iran through neighbouring countries as tensions continue in West Asia amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

During an inter-ministerial briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said 550 Indians have crossed into Armenia through the land border, while another 90 have moved into Azerbaijan, Hindustan Times reported.

He added that 284 Indian citizens had travelled to Iran for pilgrimage. Some of them have already returned to India, while others are expected to return over the next few days.

Students relocated from Tehran

Officials said the Embassy of India in Tehran remains fully operational and is coordinating assistance for Indian nationals in the country.

Indian students living in the capital, Tehran, have been relocated to safer cities outside the capital as a precautionary measure. Authorities said they are in constant contact with state governments and Union Territories in India. Helplines remain active to assist Indian citizens in the region, HT reported.

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Officials added that the government is maintaining regular communication with Indians across affected areas and coordinating with local authorities to support stranded citizens and visitors.

Flights and casualties in the region

Authorities said flight operations from several Gulf countries are continuing. On Monday alone, 45 flights were scheduled from destinations including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar to India.

However, airspace in Kuwait remains closed. Officials said special non-scheduled flights are expected to operate soon to assist travellers.

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For Indian nationals currently in Bahrain and Iraq, authorities are facilitating transit through Saudi Arabia to help them return home.

Meanwhile, the government confirmed that two Indian nationals were killed in Sohar. Officials said the Embassy of India in Muscat is in contact with the victims' families and local authorities. Arrangements are being made to bring the mortal remains back to India.