Indians trapped amid Israel-Iran war: Situation critical, government advice and security measures

New Delhi/Tehran/Tel Aviv: The military conflict between Israel and Iran that began on June 13 has brought the Middle East to the brink of war. In response to attacks on Iran's nuclear bases, Defense Ministry, and Bushehr and Shahran oil depots under Israel's 'Operation Rising Lion', Iran fired more than 150 ballistic missiles and drones on Tel Aviv and Haifa under 'Operation True Promise 3'. This war has raised concerns about the safety of thousands of Indian citizens living in both countries. The Indian Foreign Ministry has advised to be vigilant, but what is the situation of the Indians trapped there? Let's know.

Indian nationals in Israel and Iran

According to Indian government estimates, there are around 18,000 Indian nationals living in Israel, mostly from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. These people mainly work in healthcare, construction, and caregiving sector. According to a BBC report, a large number of people from Kerala are employed in Israel to take care of the elderly.

There are 5,000 to 10,000 Indians living in Iran, including students, businessmen, and professionals. Hundreds of Indian students are pursuing courses like physiotherapy, medicine, and engineering at Tehran University and Shiraz University. Some Indian families are employed in the oil and gas industry, especially in areas like Bushehr and Kharg Island.

Current situation and status of Indians

Israel is on high alert after Iranian missile attacks on Haifa and Tel Aviv. Israel's Iron Dome system destroyed 90% of the missiles, but a woman was killed and 13 people were injured when a missile fell in Tamra, Haifa. One person was killed and 90 injured in Tel Aviv, News18 reported.

Kolassery from Kerala, who is also the CEO of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORCA), told the BBC that many Indians “survived miraculously” and are now accustomed to Israel’s strict security protocols. However, the situation of hiding in bunkers in cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa has created fear among Indians.

The situation in Iran is more serious. Israeli attacks killed 224 people in Tehran, Bushehr, and Natanz, including 20 military commanders and 6 nuclear scientists. Satellite images show massive destruction at the Bushehr oil refinery and Shahran depot. Aabis (name changed), an Indian student in Tehran, told the BBC that he was in a state of “fear, shock, and confusion”. Many students have been moved to safer places with the help of the Indian embassy.

Indian Government response

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued advisories for Indians residing in both countries on 13 June, advising them to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential travel, and follow local safety instructions. On 17 June, the Ministry of External Affairs set up a 24x7 control room, the numbers for which are: 1800118797 (toll-free), +91-11-23012113, +91-11-23014104, +91-11-23017905, and +91-9968291988.

The Indian Embassy in Israel posted on X on 14 June that citizens should follow the instructions of the “Home Front Command” and stay near bunkers. The Embassy in Iran moved some students to safer places and issued emergency numbers (+98-21-88755103). Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said embassies in both countries are in touch with the Indian community.

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate claimed on X that Indian labourers are pleading with the government for help, but the government is only giving advice. However, the Ministry of External Affairs refuted the claim, saying it is actively monitoring the situation.

Economic and diplomatic challenges

This war is having a huge impact on India. Oil prices rose 12-15% to $80 a barrel, raising fears of a rise in the prices of petrol-diesel and cooking gas. The Reserve Bank of India stabilized the rupee at 86.04, which had slipped to 86.20.

The Haifa port, which is operated by the Adani Group, is part of the India-Europe Trade Corridor (IMEC). Iranian attacks on Haifa threaten this project. On the other hand, the Chabahar port in Iran, which is the gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia for India, may be affected due to the war.

India maintained a neutral stance, citing its “close and friendly” relations with both countries. The MEA urged both sides to de-escalate tensions through diplomacy and dialogue. PM Narendra Modi spoke to Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on June 14, stressing the need for peace.

Fact-check

1. Death claims: Some posts on X claimed 11-13 deaths and 300 injured in Israel, but official figures show only 27 deaths and 150 injured.
2. Haifa attacks: X claimed Iron Dome “total failure” but Israel confirmed 80% of missiles destroyed.
3. Status of Indians: Some posts said Indians were being evacuated immediately, but the MEA denied this, saying the situation was being monitored.