2,557 Indians evacuated from Iran via Armenia, Azerbaijan amid West Asia conflict

India has successfully evacuated 2,557 of its citizens from Iran through neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan following the escalation of hostilities in West Asia. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that the Indian Embassy in Tehran played a crucial role in facilitating this cross-border movement.

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Since the onset of hostilities in West Asia in February 2026, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has facilitated the cross-border movement of 2,557 Indian nationals from Iran to Armenia/Azerbaijan for their onward travel to India.

The government estimates that approximately 7,000 Indian nationals, including students and workers, remain in Iran. Singh assured Parliament that the situation is being closely monitored, with timely advisories issued to Indian nationals. A 24/7 emergency helpline and email facility are operational to assist those in distress.

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The Government is closely monitoring the security situation in Iran and has issued timely advisories to Indian nationals depending on the developments.

Recent advisories on July 19 urged Indian nationals in Iran to consider temporary exit and advised against travel to the country. The government is also addressing the difficulties faced by Indian medical students who had to return due to the conflict, engaging with Iranian authorities for solutions.

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India has reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to arrive at a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict.

Beyond the immediate evacuations, India is actively involved in broader diplomatic efforts. The nation has reiterated its call for dialogue and diplomacy to achieve a peaceful resolution to the West Asia crisis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have engaged with regional and international counterparts. India has also emphasized the importance of unimpeded freedom of navigation and the safe flow of energy and commerce, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, while diversifying its own energy imports.

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India has also stressed the importance of ensuring "unimpeded freedom of navigation and the safe flow of energy and commerce in and around the Strait of Hormuz."