Overview

• The five pilgrims from Rasra in Uttar Pradesh’s Ballia district travelled via Iraq on May 25 for a religious pilgrimage before being trapped in Tehran by rising Israel-Iran hostilities.
• One member, Masiur Rahman, managed to return to India from Iraq on June 7, leaving Syed Asad Ali Bakar, Syed Mohammad Muztaba Hussain, Syed Mohammad, Shama Jahan and Syed Nazmusqib still confined to a hotel.
• Ballia MP Sanatan Pandey has formally written to the Ministry of External Affairs requesting diplomatic backing and logistical support for their safe return.
• Direct air services between Iran and India remain suspended, prompting officials to explore alternative routes or charter arrangements.
• Meanwhile, dozens of Indian workers in Israel are sheltering in bunkers and maintaining contact with the Indian embassy as the conflict disrupts daily life.