India Issues Travel Advisory as Iran Faces Widespread Unrest

The Government of India has issued a fresh travel advisory warning Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) against non-essential travel to Iran. The advisory comes amid a surge of violent protests and civil unrest spreading across multiple Iranian cities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged Indians already in the country to exercise caution, avoid public gatherings, and remain updated through official channels.

Protesters march in downtown Tehran. (Photo: AP) | India Today

Travel Advisory Details

The MEA’s advisory emphasizes that Indian citizens should avoid all non-essential travel to Iran until further notice due to the unpredictable security situation. Those already in the country are advised to stay away from areas experiencing protests, maintain close contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran, and register with the mission if residing in Iran on long-term or resident visas. The advisory underscores the Indian government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens amid the escalating unrest.

Background of the Unrest

Iran has witnessed sustained protests since late December 2025, initially triggered by rising inflation, a weakening currency, and soaring prices of essential goods. The unrest quickly spread from Tehran’s commercial centers, particularly the Grand Bazaar, to other provinces. Merchants, students, workers, and ordinary citizens have joined the demonstrations, expressing widespread dissatisfaction with both economic hardship and political governance.

What began as protests over economic grievances has evolved into a broader movement voicing political discontent. Reports indicate that clashes between demonstrators and security forces have turned violent, creating an increasingly unsafe environment for both locals and foreign visitors.

Human Rights Concerns

The protests have raised serious human rights concerns. International rights organizations have reported that security forces have used heavy-handed measures to suppress demonstrations, resulting in numerous casualties. According to estimates, at least 25 to 35 people have been killed and over 1,200 detained nationwide. Alarming reports also suggest that children and young adults have been caught up in the violence, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Iranian Government Response

Iranian authorities have described the unrest as the work of “rioters” influenced by foreign powers and have vowed to restore law and order. In parallel, the government is attempting to implement economic reforms, including adjustments to subsidies and currency policies, to address public grievances. However, analysts caution that these measures may not immediately alleviate widespread discontent, and the risk of further unrest remains high.

Global Implications

The ongoing crisis in Iran has attracted international attention, with several countries and organizations expressing concern over the excessive use of force and urging the Iranian government to protect citizens’ rights to peaceful protest. Geopolitical tensions, particularly between Iran and Western nations, have intensified, adding a layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.

The MGMM Outlook

The Government of India has issued a travel advisory cautioning Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) against non-essential travel to Iran, as the country experiences widespread civil unrest. The advisory urges those already in Iran to exercise heightened caution, avoid public gatherings, and maintain regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. The unrest, which began in late December 2025, was initially triggered by rising inflation, a weakening currency, and the steep increase in essential goods prices. What started as economic protests has escalated into broader demonstrations expressing political discontent, with clashes between demonstrators and security forces turning increasingly violent. The volatile situation has created a high-risk environment for both local residents and foreign nationals, prompting India to prioritize the safety of its citizens abroad.

Human rights concerns have intensified as reports indicate that security forces have used heavy-handed measures to quell the protests, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread detentions, including among young people. Iranian authorities attribute the unrest to “rioters” influenced by foreign powers while simultaneously attempting economic reforms to stabilize the situation. Analysts warn that these measures may take time to calm public discontent, leaving the potential for continued unrest. The crisis has drawn global attention, highlighting both the domestic challenges Iran faces and the broader geopolitical implications. India’s advisory underscores the need for vigilance, careful planning, and reliance on official channels to navigate the uncertainties in a country grappling with both economic instability and social upheaval.

(Sources: Times of India, News18, India Today)