India Issues Travel Advisory Amid Escalating Protests in Iran

In light of escalating anti-government protests in Iran, the Indian government has issued a strong travel advisory for its citizens, urging them to avoid all travel to the country. The situation has deteriorated significantly, with reports of over 2,500 deaths linked to the protests. The unrest, which began due to economic issues, has now expanded to calls for political change. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has advised those currently in Iran to exercise caution and stay updated through local media. As tensions rise, international reactions, including warnings from the US, add to the complexity of the situation. Read on for more details about the ongoing developments in Iran.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 18:08 IST

Travel Advisory for Indian Nationals

New Delhi, Jan 14: The Indian government has issued a strong warning to its citizens, advising them to refrain from traveling to Iran due to the worsening security conditions stemming from widespread anti-government protests and subsequent crackdowns on demonstrators.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated its advisory, urging Indian nationals to avoid travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice.

Additionally, Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) currently in Iran are advised to exercise extreme caution and steer clear of protest zones.

The advisory emphasizes that all Indian citizens and PIOs should remain vigilant, avoid areas of unrest, maintain communication with the Indian Embassy in Iran, and stay updated through local news outlets.

Previously, on January 5, the MEA had recommended that its nationals avoid non-essential travel to Iran.

The situation has escalated significantly in recent days, with reports indicating that the death toll from the protests has surpassed 2,500, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) based in the US.

These protests have sparked broader tensions in the West Asian region, particularly after US President Donald Trump cautioned Tehran against a harsh response to the demonstrators, hinting at potential military action.

In a message directed at the protesters, Trump stated that "help is on the way."

The unrest began in late December in Tehran, triggered by the Iranian currency, rial, hitting record lows. The protests have since expanded across all 31 provinces, evolving from economic grievances to calls for political reform.

In response, Iran's chief judge has suggested that swift trials and executions may be forthcoming for those arrested during the protests against the regime.

Despite warnings from President Trump about severe repercussions if executions occur, Iran's judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, made these remarks.

Activists have reported that Starlink is providing free internet service in Iran, which has been crucial for circumventing an internet blackout imposed by the government on January 8.

As of January 13, Iran has permitted international calls from mobile phones, although incoming calls from abroad remain blocked.