India urges all nationals to leave Iran 'by available means' as US-Iran tension grows

“In continuation of the advisory issued by the Government of India on 5 January 2026, and in view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals who are currently in Iran (students, pilgrims, business persons and tourists) are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” the Indian Embassy in Iran said.

“The 14 January 2026 advisory is hereby reiterated that all Indian citizens and PIOs should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and monitor local media for any developments,” it added.

The embassy has also requested all Indian nationals in Iran to keep their travel and immigration documents, including passports and IDs, readily available and to contact the embassy for any assistance.

The advisory comes amid fresh waves of protests led largely by Gen Z demonstrators, following 40-day memorials for individuals killed in earlier anti-government rallies, raising concerns over security and stability.

Meanwhile, tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated over Tehran’s nuclear programme.

Washington has demanded curbs on uranium enrichment, citing concerns over potential weaponisation, while Iran maintains its programme is peaceful and has sought sanctions relief.

The US has increased military deployments in the Middle East and warned of possible strikes if diplomatic efforts fail, while Iran has vowed to resist pressure.

Diplomatic talks between the two sides are ongoing, but the risk of escalation remains high, prompting several countries, including India, to issue advisories to their citizens.