India Advises Citizens to Exit Iran Amid Worsening Security Situation

India has issued a fresh and urgent advisory asking all Indian nationals currently in Iran to leave the country at the earliest, citing an increasingly volatile security environment. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also strongly advised Indian citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran until further notice. The advisory applies to students, pilgrims, businesspersons, tourists and other Indian nationals, urging them to use all available commercial travel options while they remain operational.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has underscored that the situation on the ground is evolving rapidly, making it difficult to predict further developments. Citizens have been advised to remain cautious, avoid public gatherings, stay informed through credible local sources and maintain regular contact with the embassy for assistance.

Iran protests LIVE: Anti-government protests have been rocking Iran since late December in anger over the country's ailing economy and soon also targeted theocracy. (AP) | Hindustan Times

Backdrop of Nationwide Protests in Iran

The advisory comes amid widespread unrest across Iran, triggered initially by economic distress, including rising inflation, currency devaluation and unemployment. What began as economic protests has since expanded into broader anti-government demonstrations in several cities and provinces. Reports from international observers and human rights organisations suggest that the protests have been met with a heavy security response, leading to significant casualties, arrests and detentions.

Compounding the uncertainty is a large-scale internet disruption imposed by Iranian authorities, which has restricted access to information and hindered communication both within the country and with the outside world. This blackout has raised concerns among foreign governments about the safety of their citizens and their ability to seek timely help.

Impact on Indian Nationals in Iran

There are an estimated 9,000 to 10,000 Indian nationals currently residing in Iran, many of whom are students enrolled in medical and religious institutions. Others include workers, traders and pilgrims who visit the country for religious purposes. With transport disruptions, security checks and communication challenges increasing, the Indian government has moved proactively to reduce potential risks to its citizens.

The Indian Embassy has activated emergency helplines and is closely monitoring the situation. Citizens who are unable to leave immediately have been advised to remain indoors where possible, keep essential documents accessible and follow official instructions issued by Indian authorities.

Diplomatic Engagement Between India and Iran

Alongside the advisory, diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Tehran has intensified. India’s External Affairs Minister has been in contact with his Iranian counterpart to discuss the evolving situation and ensure the safety of Indian nationals. While details of these discussions have not been made public, they signal continued diplomatic coordination during the crisis.

India has a history of undertaking evacuation and assistance efforts for its citizens during overseas conflicts and emergencies. Officials have indicated that contingency planning is underway should the situation in Iran deteriorate further.

International Concerns and Broader Implications

Several other countries have also issued travel warnings or evacuation advisories for their citizens in Iran, reflecting growing international concern over the scale of unrest and the government’s response. Global organisations and human rights bodies have called for restraint and dialogue, warning that continued violence could further destabilise the region.

The unfolding situation in Iran also carries broader geopolitical implications, given the country’s strategic position in the Middle East and its strained relations with Western nations.

The MGMM Outlook

India’s advisory urging its citizens to exit Iran reflects the gravity of the deteriorating security environment and the government’s responsibility to act before conditions worsen further. With protests spreading beyond economic grievances into broader unrest, coupled with internet shutdowns and an intensified security response, the risks for foreign nationals have clearly increased. The move highlights a cautious but timely approach, prioritising the safety of students, pilgrims, traders and other Indians who could otherwise find themselves stranded amid transport disruptions and limited communication channels.

The situation also underlines the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and preparedness during overseas crises. By activating embassy helplines, maintaining contact with Iranian authorities and preparing contingency plans, India is signalling that citizen welfare remains central to its foreign policy. At a time when multiple countries are expressing concern over instability in Iran, the advisory serves as both a protective measure for Indians and a reminder of the wider regional and geopolitical uncertainty unfolding in West Asia.

(Sources: Business Standard, Hindustan Times, OpIndia)