Omar Abdullah Assures Support After Talks With Jaishankar on J&K Students Amid Iran Crisis

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said he has spoken with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the safety and well-being of students from the Union Territory who are currently in Iran, as the situation in the country continues to remain tense.

The Chief Minister said he received assurances from the External Affairs Ministry that all necessary steps are being taken to protect the interests of Indian nationals, particularly students from Jammu and Kashmir, who are caught amid the unfolding developments in Iran.

In a message shared on social media, Omar Abdullah said he discussed the evolving ground situation with the External Affairs Minister and was briefed about the measures being planned by the Centre. He expressed gratitude for the assurance that the safety of students and other residents from Jammu and Kashmir remains a priority.

Growing Anxiety Among Parents

The Chief Minister’s remarks come amid growing concern among families of Kashmiri students studying in Iran. Over the past few days, parents have been appealing to the Union government to facilitate the safe return of their children as tensions in Iran have escalated.

Several parents gathered at the Press Enclave in Srinagar, urging authorities to act swiftly and ensure the evacuation of students if required. Many families said they were increasingly worried due to reports of unrest and uncertainty in several parts of Iran.

According to available estimates, more than 10,000 Indian nationals are currently living in Iran, including a significant number of students pursuing medical, religious, and higher education courses. Students from Jammu and Kashmir form a sizeable portion of this group.

India Issues Travel Advisory

On Wednesday, the Government of India advised all Indian nationals residing in Iran to leave the country using available means and avoid any non-essential travel to the region until further notice. The advisory was issued as concerns grew over worsening internal conditions and rising regional tensions.

The Ministry of External Affairs has also directed Indian citizens currently in Iran to keep their travel and identification documents ready and remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. Indian nationals holding resident visas have been asked to register with the Embassy to help authorities keep track of their location and status.

The Indian Embassy has been actively monitoring the situation and providing guidance to nationals through official channels.

Situation in Iran Remains Uncertain

The situation in Iran has seen a sharp deterioration over the past several weeks, with nationwide protests continuing across multiple cities. International human rights groups have reported a rising number of casualties linked to the unrest, adding to global concern.

The developments have prompted several countries, including India, to reassess the safety of their citizens in the region. Airlines have also altered routes, and several governments have issued advisories urging caution or temporary evacuation.

Officials in New Delhi have said that India is closely tracking the situation and remains prepared to take further steps if circumstances require.

Centre’s Assurance to J&K Leadership

Sources said that Omar Abdullah’s outreach to the External Affairs Minister reflects coordinated efforts between the Union Territory administration and the Centre to address the concerns of affected families.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the safety of students and residents from Jammu and Kashmir abroad is of utmost importance. He assured parents that the government is in constant touch with central authorities and diplomatic missions to ensure timely support.

Several political leaders from the region have also called on the Centre to prioritise the evacuation of students if conditions worsen, stressing the emotional and financial strain faced by families.

Embassy Urges Vigilance

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has advised Indian nationals, including students, pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists, to remain vigilant and follow official instructions closely. The Embassy has stated that it is prepared to assist citizens with travel-related guidance and emergency support as required.

Officials have encouraged Indians to rely only on verified updates issued by government authorities and embassies, warning against misinformation circulating on social media.

Awaiting Further Developments

As the situation continues to evolve, families of students remain anxious but hopeful that diplomatic efforts and precautionary measures will ensure the safe return of their children if necessary.

For now, authorities have emphasised preparedness and coordination, with the External Affairs Ministry maintaining constant communication with its missions in the region.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has said it will continue to engage with the Centre and keep families informed of any major developments related to the safety and movement of students in Iran.