India advises nationals to leave Iran amid violent protests and escalating tensions

New Delhi: As large-scale protests continue to rock Iran over opposition to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s authoritarian rule and worsening economic conditions, the Indian government has issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to leave the country at the earliest. The move comes amid reports of severe state repression against protesters, with thousands allegedly killed during the ongoing unrest.

According to officials, demonstrations across several Iranian cities have turned increasingly violent, prompting fears of further instability. With the situation deteriorating and concerns rising over possible military action by the United States against Iran, New Delhi has asked its citizens to prioritise their safety and depart using available means of transport, including commercial flights.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation on Wednesday with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi to discuss the prevailing situation in Iran and the wider region. Sharing details of the conversation on social media, Jaishankar said, “I received a call from Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi. We discussed the situation in Iran and the region.”

The Indian Embassy in Tehran, in an official advisory, stated that all Indian nationals currently in Iran — including students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists — have been advised to leave the country considering the evolving security situation. “In view of the current developments in Iran, Indian nationals are advised to leave the country using available commercial options,” the embassy said.

The embassy further urged Indian citizens to ensure that their travel documents, including passports and identity papers, are in order. Those facing documentation issues have been asked to immediately get in touch with the Indian mission in Tehran for assistance.

Complicating the situation further is the disruption of internet services in several parts of Iran. Due to connectivity issues, the embassy has requested Indian nationals who have not yet registered with it to establish contact as soon as possible through alternative means. “Indian citizens who are not registered with the embassy are advised to contact us at the earliest, keeping in mind the prevailing internet restrictions,” the advisory added.

Reports from Iran indicate that protests have intensified in recent days, with demonstrators voicing anger over economic hardships, unemployment and political repression. Human rights groups have alleged that Iranian authorities have responded with excessive force, leading to a high number of casualties.

As tensions remain high and the situation fluid, Indian authorities said they are closely monitoring developments and will issue further advisories as required, while prioritising the safety and security of Indian citizens in the region.