Missile Strikes Leave Bihar Workers Stranded in Gulf

Thousands of families across Bihar are living in deep anxiety as the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran under the shadow of the Iran–Israel War leaves their relatives stranded in Gulf nations hit by missile and drone attacks. What was meant to be a joyful homecoming for Eid has turned into a nightmare, with migrant workers now hiding in labour camps, damaged residential blocks and overcrowded shelters amid bombings, sirens and prolonged blackouts.

Communication networks have collapsed in several affected zones, while flights have been cancelled due to airspace restrictions. In districts such as Kishanganj, Buxar, Begusarai, Muzaffarpur, Araria, Purnia and Madhubani, families are spending sleepless nights glued to their phones, praying for even a brief call confirming their sons are safe. Many say they have gone hours — sometimes days — without contact, worsening the fear.

Afzal Raza, a resident of Dumri village in Begusarai who works at a construction firm in the Gulf, described the situation inside his camp as terrifying. According to him, nearly 4,000 workers are staying together in the facility, including more than 100 from Bihar. “We cannot sleep at night. When explosions occur, the ground shakes. Missiles are falling just 6–7 kilometres away. Smoke fills the sky, and it feels like the war is happening in front of us,” he said during a phone call to his family.

He added that panic spreads every time a blast echoes nearby. Workers rush indoors, switching off lights and waiting in silence until the noise fades. Despite observing Ramzan fasts and offering prayers together at the camp mosque, fear remains constant. Many have packed their passports, money and essential documents in small bags, keeping them ready in case they need to evacuate at a moment’s notice.

Back in Bihar, parents say the sound of a ringing phone now determines whether they can breathe in relief or sink deeper into worry. With airports shut and evacuation plans uncertain, thousands of migrant workers remain trapped far from home — and their families can do little except wait, watch the news and pray for their safe return.