India issues travel advisory for Iran, urges citizens to avoid travel until further notice

Ministry of External Affairs.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday issued a fresh travel advisory urging Indian citizens to avoid travelling to Iran amid violent anti-government protests, particularly in the capital, Tehran.

“In view of the ongoing developments in Iran, Indian nationals are once again strongly advised to avoid travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice,” the MEA said in a press statement.

The advisory comes as Iran enters its third week of unrest, with reports suggesting that over 2,000 people have been killed and several thousand others injured or arrested since the protests began.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has also advised Indian nationals currently in Iran to leave the country at the earliest. In a separate statement, the embassy urged Indian students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists to depart using available means of transport, including commercial flights, citing the intensifying protests.

The latest warning follows an earlier advisory issued by the Government of India on January 5 and reflects growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the region.

“All Indian nationals in Iran are requested to also have their travel and immigration documents, including passports and IDs, readily available with them,” the advisory said, adding that citizens should stay in close contact with Indian diplomatic officials.

The embassy further cautioned Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to exercise heightened vigilance, avoid areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, and seek assistance if required.

“The emergency contact helplines of the Indian Embassy are provided below: Mobile Numbers: +989128109115; +989128109109; +989128109102; +989932179359. Email: cons.tehran@mea.gov.in,” the statement said.

Indian authorities said the advisory will remain in force until further notice as the situation in Iran continues to evolve.