NEW DELHI, Jan 15: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday issued a fresh advisory strongly urging Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Iran in view of the deteriorating security situation caused by widespread anti-government protests and an intensified crackdown by authorities.
“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 its advisory.
The Ministry also asked Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) currently residing in Iran to exercise due caution and stay away from areas witnessing protests or demonstrations. It advised them to remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and to closely monitor local media for updates on the situation.
“It is reiterated that all Indian citizens and PIOs should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and monitor local media for any developments,” the advisory said.
The MEA had earlier, on January 5, advised Indians to avoid non-essential travel to Iran. Since then, the situation has worsened significantly, with reports suggesting that the death toll from the nationwide protests has crossed 2,500, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).
The protests, which began late last month in Tehran after the Iranian rial plunged to record lows, have since spread to all 31 provinces. What initially began as demonstrations against economic hardship has evolved into broader protests demanding political change.
The unrest has also heightened tensions in West Asia, with US President Donald Trump warning Tehran against a violent crackdown on protesters and indicating the possibility of US military action. In a message to demonstrators, Trump said on Tuesday that “help is on the way.”
Adding to concerns, Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, has hinted at fast-track trials and possible executions for those detained during the protests, despite warnings from the US against such actions.
Meanwhile, activists have claimed that satellite internet service provider Starlink is offering free service in Iran, helping protesters bypass an internet shutdown imposed by authorities on January 8. While Iran began allowing outbound international calls on January 13, incoming calls from outside the country remain blocked.
The MEA said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation and will issue further advisories as necessary.
