West Asia War: India Evacuates Around 1,200 Nationals From Iran Via Armenia, Azerbaijan, Says MEA

New Delhi: More than 1,200 Indian nationals have been safely evacuated from Iran amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing in the national capital, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the evacuation is being carried out through Armenia and Azerbaijan, with the Centre closely coordinating efforts on the ground.

"Some 1,200 Indian nationals have been evacuated, out of which 845 are students. 996 moved to Armenia and 204 to Azerbaijan, from where they are being helped by the MEA," Jaiswal said.

He further added that the Ministry has been working closely with Indian missions and local authorities in both Armenia and Azerbaijan to ensure the safe return of citizens. He noted that arrangements are in place to assist evacuees in transit before they are brought back to India.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with global leaders to address key international developments, including the ongoing conflict in West Asia. "The Prime Minister is currently engaging in discussions with leaders from various nations across the globe. In this context, on 28 March, the Prime Minister held talks with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed bin Salman. During this conversation, views were exchanged regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The Prime Minister condemned the attacks targeting energy infrastructure in that region. Both leaders also discussed free navigation and keeping shipping lanes open and secure," Jaiswal said.

Meanwhile, over six lakh passengers have returned to India from the Middle East amid the developing security situation, as the US–Israel–Iran war enters its second month.