In light of the escalating situation in Tehran, India has issued an advisory urging its citizens in Iran to depart immediately. The advisory, released by the Indian embassy in Tehran on January 14, 2026, is applicable to all Indian nationals, including students, pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists currently residing in Iran. They are advised to leave by any available means of transport, including commercial flights.
This is the second advisory issued by the Indian government, the first having been released on January 5, 2025, in response to growing unrest in the region. The recent escalation in tensions and internal protests within Iran has prompted this stronger recommendation. The Indian Embassy has also requested that all Indian nationals in Iran who have not yet registered with the embassy do so immediately through the official portal. In instances where internet disruptions in Iran prevent self-registration, family members in India are requested to complete the process on their behalf.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has established emergency helplines to assist Indian nationals in need of assistance. These helplines can be reached at +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109, +989128109102 and +989932179359. The MEA has also provided the email address cons.tehran@mea.gov.in for consular assistance.
The advisory emphasizes that all Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) should exercise caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran, and monitor local media for any developments. Indian nationals are also requested to keep their travel and immigration documents, including passports, readily available.
This move follows similar warnings from other countries, including the United States, advising their citizens to leave Iran due to escalating protests that could potentially turn violent, leading to arrests, injuries, and severe disruptions.
The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to providing all necessary assistance to its citizens in Iran. Some Indians have already been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia. The Indian Embassy remains in continuous contact with the community to extend all feasible assistance.
The current situation unfolds as India and Iran were preparing to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their bilateral relations. Despite these long-standing ties, India has been compelled to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens in light of the evolving circumstances.
