India on Wednesday issued a fresh advisory urging its citizens in Iran to leave the country at the earliest, citing an evolving security situation marked
by regional tensions and widespread protests. The advisory was issued by the Indian Embassy in Tehran and follows an earlier warning released earlier this month. It asked Indian nationals, including students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists, to depart using all available means of transport, including commercial flights. “In continuation of the advisory issued by the Government of India on 5 January 2025, and in view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals who are currently in Iran (students, pilgrims, business persons and tourists) are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” the embassy said.
The warning comes amid heightened tensions in the region, including concerns over a possible US military action against Iran, as well as ongoing unrest inside the country. Protests have spread to several areas, with reports from activist groups indicating that more than 2,500 people have been killed in the crackdown so far.
Indian authorities also advised citizens who remain in Iran to exercise extreme caution. The embassy said “all Indian citizens and PIOs should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and monitor local media for any developments.”
Nationals have been asked to keep travel and immigration documents, including passports and identity papers, readily accessible, and to contact the embassy if they require assistance.
To support those affected, the embassy has activated emergency helplines and shared multiple contact numbers and an official email address for consular help. Indians who have not yet registered with the mission have been urged to do so on the Ministry of External Affairs online portal. Families in India have also been requested to complete registration on behalf of relatives in Iran if internet access is disrupted.
The protests which began on December 28 in response to soaring inflation have spiralled into one of the biggest challenges to Iran's clerical establishment since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
In an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, Trump vowed "very strong action" if Iran started hanging protesters, but didn't elaborate. "If they hang them, you're going to see some things," he said. He also urged Iranians on Tuesday to keep protesting and take over institutions, declaring "help is on the way" but without giving details.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities have accused the United States and Israel of fomenting the unrest, blaming violence on people it calls terrorists who have attacked security forces, mosques and public property.
