'Leave Iran': India's stark advisory amid threat of US attack; protests spread

NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday issued an advisory asking Indian nationals currently in Iran to leave the country at the earliest, citing an evolving security situation amid rising regional tensions and protests.

The advisory was issued by the Indian embassy in Tehran.“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 advisory read.

The fresh warning comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the region, including concerns over a possible US military action against Iran and protests in parts of the country in which over 2500 people have been reported dead.

Indian authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid areas of unrest.The embassy reiterated that “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.”Indian nationals have also been asked to keep their travel and immigration documents, including passports and identity papers, readily accessible and to contact the embassy for assistance if required.

To facilitate support, the embassy has activated emergency helplines and shared multiple contact numbers and an official email ID for consular assistance. Indians who have not yet registered with the embassy have been urged to do so on the ministry of external affairs’ online portal, with families in India requested to complete registration on their behalf if internet access in Iran is disrupted.