As the conflict between Iran and Israel continues, the Bangladesh government is taking steps to bring back Bangladeshi citizens who want to return home from Tehran.
Travel Route: Tehran to Pakistan, Then to Bangladesh
According to the plan, people will first be moved by road from Tehran to the Iran-Pakistan border. From there, they will be flown back to Bangladesh through Pakistan.
Around 100 Bangladeshis Contacted the Embassy
Out of about 400 Bangladeshis currently in Tehran, around 100 have contacted the Bangladeshi embassy. Most of them have already moved to safer places away from central Tehran.
Embassy Officials and Staff Also Moved
Officials say more than 50 of these people have shifted to safer locations. 40 embassy staff and diplomats have also moved to safety.
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Total 2,000 Bangladeshis in Iran
There are about 2,000 Bangladeshis living in Iran, and around 400 were in Tehran. So far, no Bangladeshi has been injured or killed in the conflict.
Arrangements Are Challenging but Ongoing
Foreign Secretary Md. Nazrul Islam said that while many have moved to safer places, it is difficult to house everyone together. People have been relocating in small groups on their own, and the embassy is ready to give them financial help as needed.
Sending Money to Iran Is Difficult
Because of ongoing sanctions and the war, it is now hard to send money to Iran. However, Bangladesh has made arrangements to send funds from neighbouring countries and is working with friendly nations to bring people back home safely.
Around 200 May Return Soon
According to embassy officials in Tehran, around half of the 400 Bangladeshis in the city may want to return home. So, the government is preparing to repatriate around 200 people.
Return Route: Tehran → Border → Karachi → Dubai → Dhaka
The plan is to first move people from Tehran to the border, then take them by air from Karachi, Pakistan, via Dubai, back to Bangladesh.
Situation in Tehran Is Getting Worse
A diplomatic source in Tehran said that the city is starting to empty out. The Bangladesh Embassy will stay open and active to help people return and offer support. But if the situation worsens, the embassy may temporarily suspend operations or shift location.
Source: Prothom AloÂ
