Kerala Family Anxiously Awaits News of Relative Stranded in War-Torn Iran
The family of a man from Puthuppally in Kottayam district, Kerala, is gripped with fear and uncertainty after losing contact with him following the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Iran in West Asia. The individual, who has been employed in Iran for the past four years, is now reportedly stranded and seeking assistance to cross the border into Azerbaijan.
Details of the Stranded Indian National
Fifty-six-year-old Soney Antony, a service engineer at a tea company in the port city of Chabahar, Iran, had planned to return home to Kerala for the annual Ramzan holidays. He had booked his tickets for March 13. However, his plans were abruptly disrupted when bombs fell near his workplace, forcing him to flee with four Sri Lankan colleagues.
According to his son, Nevin Antony, who spoke to The Times of India, Soney Antony and the Sri Lankan nationals moved first to Tehran and then proceeded towards the border area close to Azerbaijan in a desperate bid to escape the escalating violence. "I was not able to talk to my father over the phone, but he sent messages from the mobile phones of his Sri Lankan friends," Nevin revealed.
Urgent Plea for Embassy Assistance
From these messages, the family learned that Soney Antony is attempting to cross the border into Azerbaijan. However, a critical obstacle has emerged: a border code is required to enter Azerbaijan, and this must be provided by the Indian Embassy. Despite repeated attempts, there has been no response from the embassy, leaving Antony trapped in a perilous situation.
Nevin added a distressing update: "The Sri Lankan nationals managed to obtain the border code and are expected to leave Iran soon, but my father remains stuck without it." This disparity has heightened the family's anxiety, as they watch others secure safe passage while their loved one remains in limbo.
Family's Efforts and Lack of Updates
The family has taken proactive steps to seek help, informing Norka (the Department of Non-Resident Keralites Affairs) and providing all necessary details. "We informed Norka and passed the details. There have been no updates so far," Nevin stated, expressing frustration over the silence from authorities.
This case underscores the broader challenges faced by Indian expatriates in conflict zones, where timely diplomatic intervention can be a matter of life and death. As the Israel-Iran conflict continues to unfold, with reports of military strikes and geopolitical tensions, families like the Antonys are left clinging to hope for a swift resolution and the safe return of their kin.
The situation highlights the urgent need for enhanced consular support and communication channels during international crises, ensuring that citizens abroad receive the assistance they need in times of dire need.
