As tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate, families across India are holding their breath for the safe return of loved ones stranded in the conflict zone. Among them is 27-year-old Aniruddha Bera, a brilliant research scholar from Bhaudi village in Shalbani, West Midnapore, who is currently stuck in Tel Aviv, Israel.
Aniruddha, the only child of retired schoolteacher Asim Bera and his wife, has been pursuing advanced research in cancer biophysics at Tel Aviv University since November 2022. Having completed a five-year integrated course in life sciences at NISER, Bhubaneswar, the promising student had set out with aspirations of contributing to global medical science. However, his academic journey has been abruptly overshadowed by the looming threat of war.
Living alone in a single-room rented dormitory in central Tel Aviv, Aniruddha now finds himself in the middle of an active warzone. Speaking to his family over the phone, he described a city gripped by fear and uncertainty.
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"Since last Friday, a strict curfew has been imposed. Our university has shut down and sirens go off at least three to four times daily. We’ve stocked up on dry food because regular cooking has become nearly impossible. Shops open only for limited hours in the morning. It’s a deeply unsettling situation," he said.
The emotional toll on his family has been immense. “We haven’t slept properly in days,” shared his father, Asim Bera, adding, “We are constantly glued to the news, hoping for any update. But beyond prayers, there's little we can do except wait for help from the government.”
Amidst the chaos, a glimmer of hope arrived on Saturday night. Aniruddha informed his family that he successfully registered for Operation Sindhu, the Indian government’s special mission to evacuate citizens trapped in conflict-ridden Iran and Israel. His inclusion in the operation has brought a measure of relief to the anxious household.
Now, the final step remains— waiting for the official date of evacuation. Only then can Aniruddha board a rescue flight and return to the safety of his homeland.
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With the shadow of war growing darker, families like the Bera’s continue to cling to hope, as the government intensifies its efforts to bring home every stranded Indian from the heart of the Middle Eastern conflict.
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