Odisha PhD student in Israel fears for safety amid Iran conflict
Rourkela: A doctoral student from Odisha finds himself in the crossfire of the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. Satyaranjan Biswal (29), a fifth-year PhD student in chemistry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, is just three months from completing his doctorate, and is deeply concerned about his safety.
"For the first time, areas around the university have come under direct attack," Biswal told TOI over phone from Israel.
Living in the university dormitory equipped with emergency bunkers, Biswal described the situation as more threatening than the October 2023 terrorist attacks. "The recent rocket strike on Rehovot and injuries to researchers at the Weizmann Institute have deeply shaken the academic community," said Biswal, who was evacuated to India under 'Operation Ajay' during the 2023 Israel-Hamas war and later went back to Israel to continue his studies.
The university has for now suspended all academic activities till June 30, said Biswal, a native of Puri district.
The Indian Embassy has, meanwhile, urged all Indian nationals in Israel to remain vigilant as tension with Iran escalates.
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