Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 4: Indian students relocated from Tehran to Qom amid escalating security concerns in Iran have reported fresh explosions in their new location, triggering renewed fear and anxiety among those affected.
According to a statement issued by the All India Medical Students' Association (AIMSA) on Wednesday, Indian nationals who were earlier residing in Tehran were shifted to Qom as a precautionary measure due to the deteriorating security situation. Buses were arranged to transport the students to what was described as a relatively safer area.
However, shortly after reaching Qom, students reportedly heard explosions in the vicinity, heightening concerns about their safety.
In a separate development, students in Urmia claimed that buildings near Urmia University were allegedly struck by missiles. The reported impact has left many Indian students distressed, while families back home continue to closely monitor the situation.
Parents, along with Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, National Representative and J&K President of AIMSA, have expressed serious concern over the rapidly worsening security environment. They have urged the Ministry of External Affairs to initiate immediate measures for the safe evacuation of Indian citizens from conflict-affected regions, preferably through the nearest secure land border once feasible.
Meanwhile, senior officials of the United Nations have voiced alarm over the broader humanitarian fallout of the escalating military operations in Iran and the region.
In a joint statement, Vanessa Frazier, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, and Najat Maalla M’jid, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, warned that the intensifying conflict poses a grave threat to children.
“The rapidly escalating military operations in Iran and the region are devastating and present a serious threat to children,” the statement said.
The officials expressed deep concern over attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, stressing that such institutions must not be targeted. They also echoed the UN Secretary-General’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint and ensure full compliance with international humanitarian and human rights law.
“Children always pay the highest price in wars they did not choose,” the statement added, emphasising that every child has the right to live free from fear, with their protection and rights upheld as a primary consideration.