India Asks Its Nationals in Iran to Leave by Available Means

The Indian Embassy in Tehran on Monday issued an advisory asking all Indian nationals, including students, pilgrims, business persons and tourists, to depart Iran by all available means of transport, including commercial flights.

“In continuation of the advisory issued by the government of India on January 5 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.

It further stated that all Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations and remain in contact with the embassy.

“All Indian nationals in Iran are requested to also have their travel and immigration documents, including passports and identity cards, readily available with them. They are requested to contact the Indian Embassy for any assistance in this regard,” the advisory added.

Last month, the government had said it would take necessary steps to ensure the safety of over 9,000 Indians in Iran and was preparing contingency plans to facilitate the return of those wishing to come back. A significant number of Indians in Iran are students, particularly those pursuing medical courses.

The embassy had earlier issued an advisory asking Indian nationals to leave Iran by available means of transport. The government had also advised against non-essential travel to the country.

Iran has witnessed protests in recent months. Foreign secretary Vikram Misri had said India was closely monitoring the situation amid “visible disturbances on the streets”, adding that Indian students were safe and advising nationals not to venture out unnecessarily.

Last month, Iranian foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi spoke to external affairs minister S. Jaishankar to discuss the situation. Jaishankar had posted on X, “Received a call from Iranian foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. We discussed the evolving situation in and around Iran.”

New Delhi has reiterated that it is closely tracking developments and taking steps to safeguard its nationals.