Mehbooba Mufti Calls for Urgent Action to Safeguard Indian Students in Iran

PDP Chief's Plea for Student Safety

Mehbooba Mufti, the leader of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), has appealed to the Union Government to take swift action to ensure the safe return of Indian students currently stranded in Iran due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

In a post on 'X', she expressed her concern, stating, "The families of the stranded students are becoming increasingly worried as days go by. I strongly urge the Ministry of External Affairs to step in and take immediate measures to facilitate the safe return of their loved ones."

Families of the stranded students in Iran are growing increasingly anxious with each passing day. I earnestly urge the Ministry of External Affairs to intervene and take immediate steps to ensure the safe return of their loved ones @DrSJaishankar @India_in_Iran @MEAIndia

— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) June 16, 2025

On Sunday, the Indian Embassy in Tehran confirmed that it is actively working to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian students amidst the current security challenges. A statement from the Minister of External Affairs highlighted that the Embassy is closely monitoring the situation and is in contact with students to provide necessary support.

The Embassy is also facilitating the relocation of students to safer areas within Iran whenever possible and is exploring other viable options, including potential evacuation plans. The statement noted, "In some instances, students are being moved to safer locations with the Embassy's assistance. Other options are being considered, and further updates will be provided."

Additionally, the Embassy is engaging with community leaders to address welfare and safety issues, reaffirming its commitment to assist Indian nationals in Iran.

In a related development, Israel launched a significant series of airstrikes on Sunday, targeting various weapons production facilities in Iran, as reported by the Israeli military. The strikes reportedly destroyed infrastructure associated with the Quds Force, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and the Iranian military in Tehran. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated, "Numerous weapons production sites across Iran were targeted," including facilities for navigation and missile systems, missile fuel production, and equipment for manufacturing missile engines.