As Israeli attacks in Iran intensify, around 2,500 Bangladeshi nationals—both legal and undocumented—are currently residing across the country, including in the capital Tehran.
Among them, approximately 300 individuals, including 200 students, are considered to be in higher danger zones, prompting deep concern from the Bangladesh Embassy in Tehran.
When asked about steps being taken for the safety of Bangladeshi citizens in Iran, a senior official from the Consular Wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka confirmed that the embassy is actively working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to ensure necessary support and arrangements.
A staff member at the Bangladesh Embassy in Tehran, speaking briefly due to communication risks, described the tense environment.
“Sounds of explosions are frequently heard from our residence and the embassy compound. Sirens and Iran’s air defense systems are constantly active. It is very difficult to feel safe here,” the official said, adding that the phone connection could be cut off at any moment.
Embassy sources reported that some 1,000 to 2,000 Bangladeshis have been living permanently in various parts of Iran, including Tehran and Bandar Abbas, for decades.
Many of them have settled there through marriage and family establishment and generally make their own decisions about personal safety.
The embassy is especially worried about approximately 200 Bangladeshi students studying at different institutions in Tehran, Qom, and other cities.
In the event of further escalation or the closure of student dormitories, these students may face difficulties in finding shelter or securing basic needs.
Officials also noted that around 100 undocumented Bangladeshis are waiting to return home.
A group of 30 was scheduled to leave for Dhaka on June 13 but was unable to depart due to the current disruption in air travel.
In addition, 40 to 50 Bangladeshi professionals, tourists, and medical travelers are currently stuck in Tehran and surrounding areas as flight operations remain suspended.
The embassy is actively trying to assist approximately 300 Bangladeshis to exit Iran via land routes through Turkey and Armenia.
Coordination is ongoing with the embassies of these two countries in Tehran to facilitate the necessary visas.
Despite the escalating security threat, the Bangladesh Embassy remains operational. However, embassy officials have indicated that if the situation worsens, they may need to consider relocating the families of diplomatic staff outside Tehran, though the mission itself will remain open as long as possible.
Human trafficking remains a persistent issue in the region, with many Bangladeshis attempting to reach Europe through Iran, Iraq, and Turkey.
Officials estimate that 300 to 500 Bangladeshis currently in Iran may be connected to these trafficking routes.
However, the embassy has limited information about these individuals due to their undocumented status and the nature of their movements.
