Iran-Israel Clash: Indian Woman Returns Safely from Iran, Husband’s Remark Sparks Debate—“Better to Be a Martyr There Than Return Here”

New Delhi, 2025 —
Under Operation Sindhu, the third group of Indians stranded in Iran has safely returned to India. Among those arriving home is Nida Kulsoom, who originally hails from Uttar Pradesh but currently resides in Delhi with her husband due to his job. Nida and her group had left India on June 3, but their plans were disrupted by the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, leaving them stranded when their scheduled flight to Iraq was canceled.

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Recalling her ordeal, Nida shared, “The situation in Iran was tense, with war-like conditions everywhere. Communication was extremely difficult due to poor network connectivity, and we could barely inform our families about our situation.” She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Indian government and the embassy for their swift response and smooth arrangements that ensured their safe return.

Her husband, who welcomed her at the airport, reflected on the experience with a mix of relief and philosophical acceptance. “There was peace there as well, no real fear. The only issue was connectivity—we couldn’t talk to our families, which caused some worry. Otherwise, everything was fine,” he said.

However, his next words sparked a wave of emotion: “As our spiritual leaders say, death is inevitable. To die as a martyr is considered the greatest honor, far better than dying an ordinary death. Many in our Shia community believe there is no greater death than martyrdom, especially on the sacred soil of Iran. Honestly, returning here is a blessing, but if she had become a martyr there, it would have been even more honorable.”

When asked if he would have preferred his wife to risk her life in the conflict, he clarified, “Losing a loved one is always painful, but martyrdom brings a sense of immortality. Death can come to anyone, anytime—even young people die suddenly these days. But not everyone is destined for martyrdom. If the time had come in Iran, we would have accepted it with pride. And if ever the need arises in India, we’ll stand shoulder to shoulder for our country as well.”

As Operation Sindhu continues, the Indian government and embassies are working tirelessly to evacuate citizens stranded in conflict zones. The safe return of people like Nida is a testament to these efforts, though the emotional and philosophical debates around sacrifice and martyrdom continue to resonate deeply within affected families.