Amid the deepening crisis in the Middle East, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday, June 17, confirmed that Indian students in Tehran have been safely evacuated from the city due to rising security concerns. The Embassy of India made arrangements for their movement out of the capital, while other residents who can arrange their own transportation have been strongly advised to leave as well.

In a statement, the MEA added that some Indian nationals have also been helped to exit Iran through its border with Armenia. The Embassy remains in close contact with the Indian community and is providing assistance as needed, with more advisories expected depending on the evolving situation.

Here are the top updates on the Iran-Israel conflict:

  • Missile and drone barrage enters fifth day: Iran has launched a fresh wave of missiles and drones targeting Israeli cities and towns, marking the fifth consecutive day of conflict. The escalation follows Israel’s ‘Operation Rising Lion’ strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Over 20 people have died, and hundreds are injured in Israel.

  • Mossad drone factory ‘busted’: Iranian media reports claim authorities dismantled an alleged Mossad drone-manufacturing unit in Tehran. Two individuals were arrested, and a cache including over 200 kg of explosives, drone parts, and launchers was seized.

  • Iran FM slams Israel’s timing: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told European counterparts that Israel’s strike during ongoing nuclear talks with the U.S. “deals a blow to diplomacy.”

  • Iran State TV hit on air: Viral visuals captured a missile strike during a live broadcast at the Iranian State TV studio, forcing anchor Sahar Imami to flee as the studio trembled.

  • U.S. military buildup in region: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has deployed additional military assets to the Middle East to strengthen defenses, though specifics remain undisclosed.

  • Iran warns of NPT exit: Tehran has threatened to quit the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as tensions with Israel mount. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iranians to “evacuate Tehran immediately.”

  • Trump leaves G7 early: President Trump cut short his G7 summit visit to return to Washington amid the crisis. He emphasized that Iran “cannot have a nuclear weapon” and teased a development “much bigger than a ceasefire.”

  • Indian helpline in Israel active: The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv continues to monitor the situation and has activated a 24×7 helpline for citizens:
    📞 +972 54-7520711 / +972 54-3278392
    📧 [email protected]

  • Global calls for restraint: Countries including China, Turkey, and the UK have urged immediate de-escalation. The scheduled nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran have now been postponed.