‘Relief when call comes, panic when we lose contact’

Lucknow: With the Iran versus US and Israel war, many families in Lucknow are concerned for the safety of their family members living in the Gulf nation.

Parents and relatives said their days now begin and end with phone calls and messages. Students pursuing religious and technical education, pilgrims visiting shrines, and workers employed in small businesses are among those currently in the country. When calls do not connect or messages go unanswered, worry quickly turns into panic.


"We keep checking our phones all the time; even a short message saying he is safe helps us sleep at night," said Husain Ali Askari whose son is studying in Qom near Tehran.

Javed Ali, who has relatives in Tehran, said he has been glued to TV since the war started. "We hear about bombings and unrest and feel worried. For the last two days, we were not able to make video calls as the internet is shut there. All we want is to hear their voices."

Tour operators and travel agents said dozens of families in Lucknow have relatives in Iran, and many are trying to stay in touch. Shan Alam, a tour operator, said, "Though many of our travellers came back a few days ago, several are still in Iran. The Indian embassy in Iran is giving full support, and they are also in contact with us, giving information about the travellers to govt of India."

Central govt has advised Indian nationals, including students and pilgrims, to exercise caution and consider leaving Iran using available transport, while remaining in contact with the embassy.