EDUCATION

Fear grips Kashmiri students in Iran amid Iran-Israel escalation

By News Desk

April 14, 2024

Last night, Iran launched dozens of aerial drones and missiles at Israel in a widely anticipated reprisal attack. This action has directly impacted hundreds of Kashmiri students studying in Iran, leaving some uncertain about whether to remain or depart, Kashmir Life reported.

Earlier, the Indian government advised its citizens against traveling to Iran or Israel due to escalating tensions in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs issued this advisory and requested Indians in these countries to register with Indian Embassies.

India has expressed serious concern over the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran, which threatens peace and security in the West Asia region. “We call for immediate de-escalation, exercise of restraint, stepping back from violence, and return to the path of diplomacy,” stated a Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

A student at Imam Khomeini University in Qazvin expressed worry about the escalating tension, mentioning reports of potential retaliation by Iran and the looming specter of war.

“My roommate is preparing to leave for Lebanon, which is unsettling for other students too,” she added, expressing uncertainty about whether to stay or leave Iran and worries about a potential full-scale war between regional rivals. “My family is deeply worried. My mother is constantly in tears, fearing for my safety,” she shared.

Another student from North Kashmir, who recently traveled to Iran, echoed similar concerns. They were initially prevented from boarding a flight to Tehran due to the Ministry of External Affairs’ advisory and were permitted to travel only after signing a disclaimer acknowledging the risks involved.

“We’re uncertain about what the future holds,” expressed the student.