As tensions escalate into open conflict between Iran and Israel, hundreds of Indian students caught in the crossfire have described a night that felt like the end of the world.

On June 13, when Israel launched its first strike on Iranian soil under "Operation Rising Lion", around 140 Indian students were inside the Tehran University of Medical Sciences. As explosions shook the capital and the night sky lit up with drones and fighter jets, fear gripped the students trapped far from home.

“It kept getting worse every second”
Students from Tehran University and Islamic Azad University recounted a horrifying timeline. Around 3:20 am, a deafening explosion jolted them awake. Thick black smoke was visible from their windows. Moments later, more blasts followed, shaking buildings and nerves alike.

“The sky looked like a war zone”
“The sky was filled with drones,” one student recalled. “We heard non-stop blasts. Fighter jets were roaring overhead. There was a complete blackout. We were hiding under our beds, fearing for our lives.”

Despite the chaos, university officials stepped in to help. “Our vice-dean immediately came and tried to calm us. By evening, even the dean visited and assured us we were safe,” a student said. “But the night felt endless. We don’t have the strength to go through this again.”

Appeal to the Indian Government
The terrified students are now pleading to be evacuated. “We have been in contact with the Indian Embassy and have been promised help,” one student said. “We trust our country, but we want to return to India as soon as possible.”

Indian Embassy Steps In
Following the escalation, the Indian Embassy in Iran issued emergency helpline numbers and launched a Telegram channel to assist Indian nationals. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, nearly 10,765 Indians currently live in Iran.

Ongoing Conflict
The June 13 airstrikes marked a dramatic turning point. Israel reportedly targeted key Iranian military and nuclear sites. Iran retaliated with its own counter-attacks. The ongoing military exchange has pushed the region to the brink of a wider conflict, with global concern rising.