As protests continue to escalate across Iran, the Indian Embassy in Tehran on Wednesday issued a fresh advisory urging Indian nationals currently in the country to leave at the earliest by all available means of transport, including commercial flights. The advisory comes amid a rapidly deteriorating security situation, widespread demonstrations, and a tightening crackdown by Iranian authorities.

“In view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals who are currently in Iran are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport,” the embassy said in its latest statement. The advisory is a continuation of an earlier alert issued on January 5, reflecting growing concerns over the safety and mobility of foreign nationals in the country.

Advisory Applies to All Categories of Indian Nationals

The embassy clarified that the advisory applies to all Indian nationals in Iran, including students, religious pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists. While there has been no specific threat reported against Indian citizens, the embassy said the unpredictable nature of the ongoing unrest warranted heightened caution.

Iran has witnessed sustained protests for more than two weeks, with demonstrations reported from several major cities and provinces. The protests, which began over political and social grievances, have expanded in scale and intensity, prompting heavy security deployments and restrictions on movement in many areas.

The Indian Embassy stressed that its advisory was purely precautionary and aimed at ensuring the safety of Indian citizens as the situation continues to evolve.

Urged to Avoid Protest Areas and Exercise Caution

Reiterating earlier guidance, the embassy advised all Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) in Iran to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. Nationals have been specifically urged to avoid areas where protests, demonstrations, or large public gatherings are taking place.

“Indian citizens are advised to stay away from areas witnessing protests or demonstrations and to closely follow local media for updates,” the advisory said. It also encouraged Indian nationals to remain in regular contact with the embassy and inform officials of their location and well-being.

Given the volatile environment, the embassy cautioned that conditions on the ground could change rapidly, affecting transportation, communication, and access to essential services.

Keep Documents Ready, Stay in Touch With Embassy

In view of the uncertainty, the embassy strongly urged Indian nationals to keep their travel and immigration documents readily accessible at all times. This includes passports, visas, residence permits, and any other identification documents.

“All Indian nationals in Iran are requested to have their travel and immigration documents, including passports and IDs, readily available with them,” the advisory stated. The embassy added that individuals requiring assistance related to documentation, travel, or other consular matters should contact embassy officials without delay.

To facilitate emergency communication, the embassy shared multiple helpline numbers and an official email address for consular assistance. Indian nationals facing difficulties or requiring urgent support have been asked to reach out through the following channels:

• Emergency Mobile Numbers:
  +989128109115
  +989128109109
  +989128109102
  +989932179359
• Email: [email protected]

The embassy noted that these contact points are operational to assist Indian citizens during the ongoing crisis.

Registration Strongly Recommended Amid Internet Disruptions

The embassy also renewed its appeal for all Indian nationals currently in Iran to register themselves with the mission if they have not already done so. Registration is being facilitated through the Ministry of External Affairs’ online portal at https://www.meaers.com/request/home, which is also accessible through the embassy’s official website.

“This registration is important for the embassy to maintain contact and provide timely assistance,” the advisory said.

Acknowledging the communication challenges within Iran, the embassy noted that internet services have been disrupted in several parts of the country due to government-imposed restrictions. In cases where Indian nationals are unable to complete the registration process because of connectivity issues, their families or relatives in India have been requested to register on their behalf.

Iran Gripped by Protests and International Scrutiny

The advisory comes against the backdrop of intensifying unrest in Iran. Protests have spread across multiple regions, with demonstrators voicing anger over governance, economic conditions, and civil liberties. Iranian authorities have responded with sweeping security measures, including arrests, deployment of security forces, and restrictions on internet and mobile communications.

According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, the death toll linked to the protests has reached at least 2,571 as of early Wednesday. The figure includes protesters as well as others killed during clashes and security operations, though independent verification remains difficult due to media restrictions and communication blackouts.

Iran is also facing mounting international pressure over its handling of the protests, with several countries and human rights organisations calling for restraint, transparency, and accountability.

India Monitoring Situation Closely

While the Indian government has not announced any evacuation operation so far, the advisory indicates that authorities are closely monitoring developments. Officials have maintained that the safety of Indian nationals abroad remains a top priority and that necessary steps will be taken depending on how the situation unfolds.

For now, the embassy’s message is clear: Indian citizens in Iran should prioritise their safety, limit movement, stay connected with the mission, and leave the country if feasible using available transport options.

As protests continue and uncertainty persists, the situation remains fluid, and further advisories may follow depending on developments on the ground.