New Delhi: India on Wednesday advised its citizens currently in Iran to leave the country at the earliest, citing a rapidly worsening security situation due to continuing unrest. The government also issued a renewed advisory discouraging all travel to the Islamic Republic until further notice.
In an advisory released by the Indian Embassy in Tehran, Indian nationals—including students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists—were asked to depart Iran using all available means, including commercial flights. The embassy stressed that the situation remains fluid and potentially volatile.
The latest advisory follows earlier warnings issued this month and reflects increasing concern within the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) over the deteriorating internal conditions in Iran. “In view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals who are currently in Iran are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport,” the embassy said.
The advisory further urged citizens to exercise extreme caution, avoid areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, stay in regular contact with the Indian mission, and closely follow local news and official updates.
In a parallel statement issued in New Delhi, the MEA said Indian nationals were “once again strongly advised” to avoid travel to Iran. The ministry referred to its earlier advisory dated January 5, which had cautioned against non-essential travel and asked Indians already in the country to remain vigilant.
Indian nationals in Iran have also been instructed to keep their passports and other identification documents readily accessible at all times. To assist those seeking help or evacuation-related information, the embassy has shared multiple emergency helpline numbers and an official email address.
To ensure effective communication during the ongoing crisis, the Indian Embassy has urged all nationals who have not yet registered with the mission to do so immediately through the MEA’s online registration portal. Families in India have also been encouraged to complete the registration on behalf of their relatives in Iran in case of internet disruptions.
The advisory comes amid widespread unrest in Iran that began in late December, fuelled by economic hardship and growing public discontent against the country’s clerical leadership. Protests across several cities have reportedly turned violent, prompting a strong security response from authorities.
The situation has attracted international attention, with global human rights organisations criticising the use of force against protesters. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called on Iranian authorities to show restraint and halt the use of lethal force.
While the MEA has not specified the number of Indians currently in Iran, official estimates indicate a significant presence, including students, traders, religious pilgrims and long-term residents. Indian authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and further advisories will be issued based on developments on the ground.
