Iran–Israel War: Thousands of Indians Stranded at Airports

Whenever geopolitical issues result in animosity between countries and lead to a warlike situation, it is often our Indians who suffer the consequences as sizeable population of settlers are spread across the country. 

With rising tensions in Middle East over the ongoing Iran – Israel conflict, thousands of Indians are stranded at many airports due to cancellation of flight operations on Saturday with no clarity on when normalcy would be restored as there is no sign of ceasefire from both countries. 

Middle East is one of the busiest transit hubs for passengers who travel from Asian countries to other continents. The escalating tensions led to the closure of airspace indefinitely, leading to utter chaos at airports. Stranded passengers are now awaiting immediate assistance from Indian embassy to bring them back home with the intervention of our government. 

Many celebrities including sportspersons like PV Sindhu and film actors besides businesspersons and normal citizens were stuck in Dubai due to the ongoing uncertainty. They have approached the Indian High Commission to provide necessary assistance during the dire situations. 

Nearly 1200 Indian students were stranded and living in fear in Iran due to the airstrikes carried out by Israel and USA. They are waiting for the government to evacuate them from Iran immediately. Though half of the students left the country after the advisory issued by the Indian embassy, significant number of students are still in the wartorn country and looking for help from the government. 

Also, several tourists from Karnataka’s Ballari got stranded at Dubai Airport after the suspension of flights. They are seeking government’s help for safe return to India. 

Meanwhile, the government has issued an advisory to foreigners who are stranded at various airports across the country.

The official statement read ” All foreign nationals in India, who have had to change their travel plans due to the ongoing developments in the West Asia region and need assistance with extension of their visa or to regularize their stay, are requested to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office.”