India urges citizens in Iran to depart amid protests and rising tensions
India urges citizens in Iran to depart amid protests and rising tensions
Indian citizens in Iran told to leave by available transport as protests surge and regional tensions mount, with safety reminders from Tehran embassy.
An advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in Tehran on February 23, 2026, asks Indian nationals—students, pilgrims, business people and tourists—currently in Iran to leave the country by available means of transport, including commercial flights. It also urges travelers to keep travel and immigration documents, such as passports and IDs, readily accessible and to contact the embassy for any assistance. The message follows earlier advisories from the Ministry of External Affairs and the embassy in January 2026 and comes as U.S.-Iran tensions and regional developments add to safety concerns for travelers. All Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin are urged to exercise caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the embassy, and monitor local media for updates. Emergency contact helplines and embassy email are provided for assistance, underscoring the government’s emphasis on safeguarding its nationals during this volatile period.
The advisory notes fresh anti-government protests sweeping Iranian universities amid broader unrest, with concerns about potential spillover as talks with U.S. negotiators resume. While Tehran signals a push to forestall new clashes and pursue dialogue, officials warn that the security situation can change rapidly. Travelers are reminded that non-essential travel to Iran had already been discouraged earlier in January, as protests and security crackdowns intensified. The embassy’s guidance reflects a precautionary approach designed to help Indian nationals plan exit routes and ensure they have immediate support if needed.
In practical terms, the embassy has listed direct emergency lines and an email address for consular support. The advisory emphasizes prompt communication with the mission and enforcement of standard safety measures while in Iran. Indian nationals traveling for study, pilgrimage, or business are advised to reassess their plans in light of the evolving situation and to consider leaving the country through available channels while options remain open.
