New Delhi: India on Monday advised its citizens to refrain from non-essential travel to Iran as protests over inflation and rising living costs continue across the country.
In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs urged Indian nationals and people of Indian origin currently in Iran to remain vigilant and avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place.
The advisory said: “In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice. Indian citizens and PIOs currently in Iran should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and closely monitor news as well as the website and social media handles of the Embassy of India in Tehran. Indian nationals living in Iran on resident-visas are advised to register with the Indian Embassy, if not already done so.”
Around 10,000 Indian nationals are presently in Iran, the majority of whom are students. Iran also receives a significant number of Indian Shia Muslim pilgrims each year, according to reports.
The advisory comes amid heightened international attention, following a warning from US President Donald Trump of possible intervention if Iranian authorities crack down on protesters. According to reports, about 15 people, including security personnel, have died since the unrest began roughly a week ago, marking the country’s largest wave of protests in the past three years.
