The Armenia route now stands out as a practical and effective channel, underlining how regional partnerships can play a key role in protecting citizens during crises
In a fresh example of quiet diplomacy at work, 345 Indian fishermen stranded in Iran have returned home using an alternative land route through Armenia, offering a new lifeline amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
The group arrived safely in Chennai on Saturday evening after travelling out of Iran via Armenia, officials confirmed. The evacuation highlights how lesser-used transit corridors are becoming crucial as air routes and regional movement face disruptions due to rising tensions.
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India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar publicly thanked his Armenian counterpart Ararat Mirzoyan and the Armenian government for facilitating the passage
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Their support enabled the fishermen to cross safely and board onward transport back to India
While details on how the fishermen became stranded remain unclear, their return is part of a broader evacuation effort. Over 1,500 Indian nationals have exited Iran in recent weeks through land borders with Armenia and Azerbaijan, reflecting a shift towards flexible evacuation strategies as the conflict continues.
The Ministry of External Affairs said it is closely monitoring the situation, placing the safety and welfare of Indian citizens abroad as its top priority. Officials are adapting routes and coordinating with multiple countries to ensure safe passage where direct options are limited.
The wider regional instability has also affected Indians elsewhere. In a separate incident in Abu Dhabi, five Indian nationals were injured after debris from an intercepted missile fell in a populated area. Four have since been discharged, while one remains under medical care, with the Indian mission providing full support.
