Stranded Indians Return Home from Iran via Neighbouring Countries

The Ministry of External Affairs announced that Indians stranded in Iran are returning home through Armenia and Azerbaijan, aided by Indian missions. The number of returnees has increased, with all stranded pilgrims back in India. Efforts are ongoing to locate a missing Indian in West Asia.

In a significant development, the Ministry of External Affairs has reported that Indian nationals stranded in Iran are being evacuated through land routes via Armenia and Azerbaijan. This effort, supported by Indian missions, has seen an increase in the number of returnees, as detailed by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during an inter-ministerial briefing.

Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that a total of 913 Indian citizens have successfully crossed into Armenia and Azerbaijan from Iran. Moreover, all 284 pilgrims previously stranded in Iran have safely returned to India. The Ministry's control room has received limited inquiries, primarily regarding Indian citizens on merchant ships.

Meanwhile, Additional Secretary (Gulf) Aseem R Mahajan highlighted the efforts of Indian missions in West Asia to locate an Indian national reported missing amid ongoing regional conflicts. Sadly, six Indian nationals have lost their lives. However, the travel situation from the Gulf region is gradually improving, with additional flights facilitating the return of around 300,000 passengers to India since February.

(With inputs from agencies.)