Indian Embassy Warns Nationals in Iran Amid Rising Tensions
Advisory for Indian Nationals in Iran
Tehran: On Monday, the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued a warning to its citizens, advising them against approaching any land borders for travel outside Iran without prior coordination with the Embassy.
The Embassy emphasized that it would not be able to assist Indian nationals who leave Iran and encounter difficulties entering another country.
In a statement shared on X, the Embassy noted, "Indian nationals are advised not to approach any of the land borders of Iran for travel outside the country without prior coordination with the Embassy. Any movement towards land border points should be undertaken only after obtaining explicit guidance from the Embassy."
The advisory further clarified that once individuals exit Iranian territory, the Embassy would not be in a position to provide assistance if they are unable to enter a third country.
Indian nationals are encouraged to reach out to the Embassy via emergency contact numbers or email for support.
This advisory comes in light of escalating tensions in West Asia, which intensified following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, prompting Iran to retaliate with drone and missile attacks targeting US assets and allied forces in the region.
On Sunday, Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, responded to criticism regarding Iran's military actions, labeling them as "defensive" and asserting that missiles are launched at Iran from neighboring countries.
Baqaei stated on X, "To those who insist on ignoring the underlying justifications behind our defensive strikes against US military bases and assets in the region: Missiles are launched at Iran from the territories of neighboring countries, and specifically near residential neighborhoods, while US fighter jets use the airspace of neighboring countries to attack Iran, thereby endangering regional security."
Several nations in West Asia have condemned Iran's actions, viewing them as an escalation and a threat to regional stability.
On Monday, Saudi Arabia denounced the Iranian attacks against itself and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, asserting its right to take necessary measures to safeguard its security and sovereignty. The Saudi Foreign Ministry remarked that ongoing Iranian assaults signify further escalation, adversely affecting bilateral relations.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry's statement highlighted that targeting civilian infrastructure, airports, and oil facilities reflects a determination to undermine security and stability while violating international laws.
Regarding the Iranian President's claim of no plans to attack neighboring countries, Saudi Arabia stated that Iran's actions contradict this assertion, continuing its attacks based on unfounded allegations, including claims that Saudi aircraft participated in the conflict, which were clarified to be false.
The Kingdom reiterated that Iran's ongoing attacks represent a significant escalation, with serious implications for future bilateral relations, emphasizing that Iran's current actions do not demonstrate wisdom or contribute to de-escalation, ultimately making Iran the biggest loser.