Indian Students Make Gruelling Journey From Iran to Armenia Before Eid Celebrations
Indian students stranded in Iran return via Armenia as MEA coordinates safe evacuation amid Middle East conflict.
As the Middle East conflict enters its 21st day, thousands of Indian students stranded in Iran have been returning home ahead of Eid ul-Fitr 2026 via Armenia, following the curtailment of direct flights due to airspace closures and security concerns. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Tehran have coordinated phased evacuation efforts, ensuring students reach safety despite the challenging circumstances.
With direct air routes disrupted, many students undertook arduous overland journeys from Iranian cities to the Armenian border, where they boarded flights to India. Hundreds have already arrived in Delhi, Lucknow, and Kashmir. One group of over 70 students from Iranian universities reached home safely, marking an emotional milestone after days of travel. “The journey was exhausting from Tehran to Yerevan. It took hours to reach the border and then wait for flights. Finally stepping onto Indian soil felt like a dream,” said student Mir Jabir.
The evacuations reflect significant diplomatic coordination between India and Iran. Maulana Jalal Haider Naqvi, father of one of the students, praised the Embassy’s guidance and the governments’ cooperation, calling it “our lifeline” during a period of uncertainty. Students and families alike expressed relief at the safe returns after weeks of anxiety.
Also Read: Jaishankar Appreciates Armenia for Safe Evacuation of Indian Nationals From Iran
The conflict in Iran has also disrupted academics, with classes cancelled and examinations postponed, leaving students in prolonged uncertainty. Pervez Islam, another returnee, said, “It was a shared fear among all of us. This Eid will be extra special. We want to be with our families, pray together, and share a meal.”
Eid celebrations across the Gulf region and Iran this year are unfolding under a sombre tone, with mosques shifting prayers indoors and public festivities muted due to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Despite these challenges, the students’ return highlights resilience and reunion as central themes this festival season.
Tomorrow, these students will join their families in India for prayers and celebrations, turning Eid into a poignant symbol of survival, hope, and spiritual renewal amid global unrest.
Also Read: Iran War Dampens Eid ul Fitr 2026 Celebrations Across Saudi Arabia and UAE
