The ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States has raised serious safety concerns for travellers and international students considering visiting or studying in Iran. The war, now in its 12th day, shows no immediate signs of de-escalation, with airstrikes and hostilities continuing across the region, including Iran’s capital, Tehran.
Recent Israeli airstrikes on March 7 targeted fuel depots and refineries in Tehran, causing massive fires and releasing thick plumes of smoke containing harmful chemicals such as hydrocarbons, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Authorities have urged residents—especially children, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with heart or lung conditions—to remain indoors due to the severe air quality and health risks.
The conflict has disrupted daily life and created uncertainty for around 3,000 Indian students currently enrolled in Iranian institutions, many of whom are pursuing medical education. Some students have returned home, while others are unsure about travel arrangements, examinations, and academic schedules amid the evolving crisis. The instability has triggered broader anxieties for students and families in the Gulf region, where the Middle East hosts a sizable Indian student population.
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Travel disruptions have also affected logistics and academic continuity. Institutions in nearby Gulf countries such as the UAE temporarily shifted to distance learning to ensure students could continue their education safely. Families are closely monitoring developments, particularly during the peak admissions period for upcoming academic sessions, as decisions about travel and enrollment remain pending.
Experts strongly advise against travel to Iran under current conditions. Dr. Mansi, Assistant Professor at Amity University, described Iran as an “Absolutely Do Not Go Zone,” citing the ongoing military strikes, humanitarian risks, arbitrary detention threats for foreign nationals, and breakdowns in communication and internet services. She emphasized that pursuing education in Iran is currently not viable due to the collapse of normal institutional life.
Travellers and students are urged to rely only on official government advisories before making any plans. Updates from the Ministry of External Affairs and embassy websites should guide decisions, and travel should be undertaken only when authorities declare the situation safe.
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