Turkmenistan aids evacuation from Iran amid Middle East tensions
Turkmenistan has opened its borders to assist in the evacuation of foreign nationals from Iran due to the escalating situation in the Middle East.
So far, around 120 people—including citizens of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Romania, and other countries—have entered Turkmenistan through official checkpoints.
The evacuees are being provided with transportation, meals, basic necessities, and accommodation at Ashgabat’s Sport Hotel.
Turkmen authorities are coordinating closely with foreign embassies and international organizations, reinforcing the country’s commitment to humanitarian values and regional cooperation.
Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, multiple countries have meanwhile issued urgent travel advisories, calling on their citizens to leave Iran immediately and avoid non-essential travel to the region.
Governments including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and several Central Asian states have cited growing security risks due to the volatile situation and the possibility of further military escalation.
Some embassies have already begun scaling down operations or temporarily relocating staff to neighboring countries. Emergency hotlines and evacuation assistance are being offered for citizens still in Iran.
This wave of advisories follows recent airstrikes, retaliatory threats, and increased instability in Iran’s neighboring regions, prompting fears of broader conflict. Many countries are working with allies and international partners to coordinate evacuation plans and ensure the safety of their nationals.
India takes action
India has launched a precautionary evacuation operation to bring home its citizens from Iran, in response to growing security concerns in the region.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is working closely with embassies and local authorities to ensure the safety of Indian nationals.
According to Indian officials, around 100 Indian students from the Iranian city of Urmia have already reached the Iran–Armenia border. The Indian Embassy is arranging their onward travel, with plans to fly them out of the region in coordination with neighboring countries.
India has also advised its citizens in Tehran and other Iranian cities to relocate to safer areas. The MEA has activated a 24×7 helpline and established a command center to coordinate the evacuation and provide support.
Approximately 10,000 Indians are currently living in Iran, including an estimated 6,000 students. The government has emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue evacuation efforts as needed.
