KATHMANDU: The Indian government has agreed to assist in evacuating Nepali nationals stranded in Iran, following a formal request from the Government of Nepal amid growing security concerns due to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.
According to the Indian Embassy in Tehran, India will help evacuate citizens of its neighboring countries, including Nepal and Sri Lanka.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the embassy called on Nepali and Sri Lankan nationals in need of rescue to reach out and provided three contact numbers for assistance.
“In response to requests from the governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy in Iran will also assist citizens of both countries in evacuation efforts,” the post read.
The development follows a formal request made by Nepal’s Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana to the Indian government to help rescue Nepalis caught in the conflict zone. Minister Rana also directed Nepal’s Ambassador to India, Dr. Shankar Sharma, to coordinate efforts.
Shortly after India’s response, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a notice urging Nepalis in Iran to contact the Indian Embassy in Tehran for assistance.
Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudyal Kshetri confirmed that coordination is underway with Deputy Chief of Mission Rakhee Mayuri at the Indian mission in Tehran.
Currently, 16 Nepali nationals are reported to be in Iran, five of whom are in Iranian prisons due to immigration-related offenses. The Nepali government is also working to secure their release and repatriation.
The Indian embassy’s cooperation comes as a significant relief amid escalating regional tensions, providing a crucial lifeline for Nepalis caught in the crossfire.
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