Why India Urges Its Citizens to Leave Iran Amid Rising Tensions
Urgent Advisory for Indians in Iran
New Delhi: On Wednesday, the Indian government issued a strong recommendation for all its citizens currently in Iran to depart as soon as possible, citing escalating tensions related to potential military actions by the United States in response to Iran's crackdown on protests that have resulted in over 2,500 fatalities.
The Indian embassy in Tehran has advised all Indians, including students, tourists, and business professionals, to utilize available transportation options, such as commercial flights, to exit the country.
Currently, it is estimated that more than 10,000 Indians, including a significant number of students, reside in Iran.
The embassy also emphasized the importance of exercising caution, steering clear of protest zones, and maintaining communication with the embassy.
Indians are encouraged to keep their travel documents, including passports, easily accessible. Those on resident visas are advised to register with the embassy.
In cases where individuals face difficulties registering due to internet outages in Iran, their families in India are urged to assist with the registration process.
Given the rapidly changing circumstances in Iran, the embassy reiterated its advice for Indian nationals to leave the country using any available means of transport.
This advisory comes in light of increasing tensions in the region, particularly after remarks from former President Trump suggesting military intervention if Iran continues its violent suppression of protests.
Trump warned that severe actions would follow if the Iranian government escalates its crackdown, stating, "If they hang them, you’re going to see some things… We will take very strong action if they do such a thing," during an interview with CBS News.
In a message directed at the protesters, Trump indicated that assistance is forthcoming, while also imposing a 25% tariff on nations trading with Iran.
The protests, which began last month in Tehran due to the plummeting value of the Iranian rial, have expanded across all 31 provinces, shifting from economic grievances to calls for political reform.
Additionally, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reiterated its warning for Indians to refrain from traveling to Iran.
In light of the ongoing situation, the MEA strongly advises against travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice.
Previously, on January 5, the MEA had cautioned its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran and urged those already there to exercise caution and avoid protest areas.
The situation in Iran has worsened significantly in recent days, with the death toll from the protests reportedly exceeding 2,500, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).