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Additionally, the Indian Embassy in Tehran urged Indian nationals currently residing or traveling in Iran to leave the country at the earliest.
Authorities have imposed a near-nationwide internet blackout, cutting off mobile and landline connectivity just as large crowds poured into streets following calls for nationwide demonstrations. The shutdown aims to hinder coordination but has drawn international concern. (Image: Getty)
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday issued an advisory urging its citizens to avoid travel to Iran as Tehran is witnessing violent protests.
According to the advisory, the nationals are advised to avoid travel to Tehran until further notice.
“In view of the ongoing developments in Iran, Indian nationals are once again strongly advised to avoid travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice,” the MEA said in a press statement.
Additionally, the Indian Embassy in Tehran urged Indian nationals currently residing or traveling in Iran to leave the country at the earliest, citing intensified protests.
In a statement, the embassy advised Indian students, pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists to depart Iran using available means of transport, including commercial flights. The advisory followed an earlier warning issued by the Government of India on January 5 and reflected growing concerns over recent developments in the region.
The embassy also cautioned its citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to exercise heightened vigilance, avoid areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, and remain in close contact with Indian diplomatic officials.
“All Indian nationals in Iran are requested to also have their travel and immigration documents, including passports and IDs, readily available with them. They are requested to contact the Indian Embassy for any assistance in this regard,” the advisory said.
The embassy also issued emergency helpline numbers and an official email address to facilitate immediate support.
“The emergency contact helplines of the Indian Embassy are provided below: Mobile Numbers: +989128109115; +989128109109; +989128109102; +989932179359. Email: cons.tehran@mea.gov.in,” it stated.
Additionally, the embassy requested all unregistered Indian nationals in Iran to complete their registration through the Ministry of External Affairs’ online portal. In cases where internet disruptions prevent registration, families in India have been encouraged to complete the process on their behalf.
The advisory came as Iran entered its third week of anti-government demonstrations, with over 2,000 people killed since the protests erupted, with thousands more injured or arrested. As per reports, Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said that at least 2,403 protesters have been killed since the anti-government demonstrations began in December.
The protests erupted on December 28 over soaring inflation and have since grown into one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s clerical leadership since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei blamed unrest on what he described as destructive elements acting in the interests of foreign powers. He said, “Last night in Tehran and in some other places, a group of vandals came and destroyed a building belonging to their own country. These people place their hopes in the President of the United States. Set aside these hooligans and individuals who are harmful to the country.”
AFP journalists described Tehran as being in a state of near paralysis. Many shops are closed, and those that open are forced to shut by late afternoon as security forces deploy across the city.
January 14, 2026, 3:31 PM IST
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