NEW DELHI, JAN 14: India issued an unprecedented emergency advisory Wednesday, urgently calling on all its nationals in Iran — including students, pilgrims, businessmen, and tourists — to leave the country immediately by any available commercial flights, as fears intensify over potential US military strikes and nationwide protests that have reportedly killed over 2,500+ people.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran dramatically escalated its January 5 caution, reflecting a rapidly deteriorating security landscape. “Indian nationals who are currently in Iran are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” the stark directive stated, emphasizing the shrinking window of opportunity amid escalating regional volatility.
Citizens received clear instructions: avoid all protest areas and demonstrations, exercise extreme caution, keep passports and travel documents readily accessible at all times, and immediately register on the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) online portal — even if internet access becomes restricted.
For Indians unable to register themselves, families back home have been urged to complete registrations on their behalf. The embassy activated multiple emergency helplines and dedicated email support to provide round-the-clock consular assistance during this crisis.
The urgent directive arrives against a backdrop of acute security concerns, including credible intelligence about possible US military action against Iran and widespread internal unrest. Protests have gripped major cities, creating widespread instability that threatens both local infrastructure and international travelers.
Indian authorities emphasized continuous monitoring of local media updates and maintaining direct contact with the Tehran embassy throughout their departure. “Stay vigilant and prepared for sudden developments,” officials stressed.
The advisory underscores India’s proactive approach to citizen safety amid one of the most volatile periods in Middle East geopolitics, prioritizing the swift evacuation of approximately several thousand Indians believed to be in Iran for various purposes.
