India flags safety concern for about 9,000 citizens in Iran, urges them to leave

The Indian government has urged its citizens in Iran to exit the country amid an unstable security situation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is monitoring the developments closely and has issued multiple advisories for Indian nationals in the region.

“Approximately 9,000 of our citizens are currently residing in Iran. The majority of them are students,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

He said the government has updated its travel advice in light of recent events and is focused on the safety of Indians abroad.


"In light of the recent developments there, we have issued two or three advisories. In these advisories, we have advised our citizens in India not to travel to Iran at this time, and we have advised Indian citizens residing in Iran to leave the country by whatever means are available. We are keeping a close watch on the situation there, and as far as our citizens are concerned, we are committed to doing whatever is necessary for their well-being," he added.

MEA outlines support for departures

In its advisories, the ministry has strongly urged Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin against non‑essential travel to Iran until further notice. Those in Iran are encouraged to depart by any available means, including commercial flights, and to avoid areas where protests and demonstrations are unfolding.

The MEA has also asked citizens to stay in regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran and to keep travel documents such as passports and IDs accessible.

The government’s preparations include plans to support safe departures for Indian students, business travellers, pilgrims and tourists who want to leave. Authorities have set up channels for assistance and are monitoring the evolving situation closely. Indians facing difficulties in Iran have been asked to contact the Embassy for help as New Delhi continues to assess conditions on the ground.