KKN Gurugram Desk | As tensions between Iran and Israel continue to intensify, the number of Indian citizens stranded in Iran has risen, with 11 more individuals from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, reported stuck during their religious pilgrimage, or Ziyarat. Just two days ago, reports emerged of three residents from the Kithore area also trapped due to sudden war developments.

Families of those stranded are now deeply concerned for their safety, urging the Indian government to intervene urgently and facilitate their safe return home.

 Meerut Families Anxious as War Blocks Return of Ziyarat Pilgrims

The latest report was confirmed by Ali Haider Rizvi, coordinator of the Ali Mission Society. He stated that Nawab Hasan, a resident of Zaidi Farm in Meerut, had traveled to Iran for Ziyarat with his wife, Samar Fatima. They were joined by several others from the city, including:

• Masoom Raza and his wife Hina, with their two-year-old daughter Masooma

• Mansoor Raza, his wife Shabina, and their two children

• Vilayat Husnain and his wife, residents of Abdullapur, Meerut

The entire group had planned to return after completing their pilgrimage, but the sudden escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict led to mass flight cancellations, leaving them stranded in the war-torn country.

 Communication Breakdown Deepens Family Worries

Speaking to KKNLive, relatives of the pilgrims expressed growing fear as communication with their loved ones has become difficult. Ali Naqvi from Abdullapur revealed that his family is not able to establish regular contact with those in Iran, increasing concern about their safety amid ongoing missile strikes and air raids in cities like Tehran, Arak, and Khondab.

“Every passing hour without information is like a nightmare,” said Naqvi. “Their return flight was scheduled five days ago, but the outbreak of war disrupted all plans.”

?? Indian Government Urged to Act Swiftly

Ali Mission Society’s coordinator, Ali Haider Rizvi, has made an urgent appeal to the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to initiate diplomatic dialogue with Iran and ensure the safe evacuation of Indian citizens, particularly those on religious visits.

“We are not talking about tourists. These are pilgrims on a spiritual journey who are now caught in a war zone,” Rizvi stated. “We urge the Prime Minister to take immediate action before the situation worsens.”

In a parallel appeal, Syed Mohammad Jamin, a resident of Isapur in Kithore, has requested the government’s help in rescuing his brother Syed Mohammad Alim, sister-in-law Aaliya Batool, and uncle Syed Safdar Raza, who are also stranded in Iran.

 Prayers for Peace and Safety

As reports of missile strikes, civilian deaths, and air defense operations in Iran surface daily, families in India are turning to prayer. Religious leaders across Meerut and surrounding regions have organized community gatherings, offering prayers for global peace and the safe return of all pilgrims.

“We pray not just for our family members, but for the entire humanity,” said a local cleric. “War only brings destruction. Our hearts go out to the innocent people suffering on both sides.”

 Future Travel Plans on Hold Amid Uncertainty

The ongoing Iran-Israel war has also cast a shadow over future travel plans of Indian Shia Muslims preparing for Ziyarat during or after the holy month of Muharram. Ali Naqvi, who had planned a 15-member family trip to Iran, confirmed that while their flights are booked, the tickets have been put on hold until further notice.

“We haven’t cancelled yet, but we’re watching the situation closely. If peace is restored, we’ll proceed. Otherwise, we’ll have to delay or cancel entirely,” he said.

 Iran-Israel Conflict Impact on Indian Pilgrims: Key Takeaways

• 11 new cases of Indian nationals from Meerut stranded in Iran have been reported, adding to the growing number.

• Affected pilgrims include men, women, and young children, many of whom traveled for religious purposes.

• Families have lost regular contact due to communication breakdowns in conflict-affected zones.

• Flight operations suspended, leaving stranded groups with no clear evacuation route.

• Community groups have appealed directly to the Indian government for diplomatic and logistical help.

• Planned Ziyarat trips for Muharram season are now in limbo.

 Wider Context: Conflict Disrupts South Asian Pilgrimages

The Iran-Israel war is having ripple effects across the Muslim world, particularly for those traveling for Shia pilgrimages to sacred sites in Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Reports from other parts of Uttar Pradesh also indicate that over two dozen pilgrims are stuck in Iraq, and many have been warned against traveling until further notice.

With India hosting one of the largest Shia populations outside the Middle East, such disruptions not only affect personal travel plans but also raise larger concerns for the safety of Indian citizens in conflict zones.

 Government Helplines and Advisory

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has activated its 24×7 emergency helpline for Indian citizens stranded in Iran. Citizens are advised to stay in touch with the Embassy of India in Tehran, avoid public gatherings, and follow local safety protocols.

For emergency assistance:

•  Indian Embassy, Tehran

•  Helpline Number: +98-XXXX-XXXX

•  Email: cons.tehran@mea.gov.in

As the geopolitical crisis unfolds, India is expected to accelerate evacuation missions, possibly similar to the recently executed Operation Sindhu, which brought back Indian students from Iran earlier this week. However, the situation remains fluid, and any escalation in attacks could further complicate rescue efforts.