India Issues Urgent Advisory for Nationals in Iran
The Indian government has issued an urgent advisory on Monday, February 23, 2026, urging all its nationals currently residing in or visiting Iran to depart the country immediately. The advisory, disseminated by the Embassy of India in Tehran and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), cites an 'evolving security situation' and 'heightened regional tensions' as the primary reasons for the directive.
Indian citizens, encompassing students, pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists, are advised to leave Iran by 'available means of transport, including commercial flights,' at the earliest opportunity.
Context of Escalating Tensions
This latest advisory follows earlier warnings issued on January 5, 2026, and reiterated on January 14, 2026, which cautioned against non-essential travel to Iran and urged vigilance.
The heightened concerns stem from several factors contributing to regional instability:
- Fears of a US Military Strike: There are growing apprehensions regarding a potential military strike by the United States on Tehran.
- US-Iran Negotiations: Despite the escalating tensions, negotiations between the US and Iran concerning a nuclear deal are ongoing, with the next round of talks reportedly scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Geneva.
- Regional Military Buildup: The United States has significantly increased its military presence in the region.
- Internal Protests: Recent anti-government protests by Iranian students in Tehran and other cities, following violent crackdowns in January, have added to the internal unrest.
- Broader Regional Instability: The advisory also comes amidst wider regional instability, including the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and the involvement of Houthi forces in the Red Sea.
Approximately 10,000 Indian nationals, including students and pilgrims, are estimated to be present in Iran.
Instructions for Indian Nationals
The Indian Embassy has provided specific instructions for its citizens in Iran:
- Keep all travel and immigration documents, including passports and identification papers, readily accessible.
- Contact the Indian Embassy in Tehran for any assistance required. Emergency helpline numbers and an email address have been provided.
- Exercise 'due caution,' avoid areas witnessing 'protests or demonstrations,' and closely monitor local media for further developments.
- Those who have not yet registered with the mission are advised to do so through the designated online portal on the embassy's website. Families in India can complete the registration process if internet disruptions occur in Iran.
South Korea has also issued a similar advisory to its citizens in Iran, reflecting broader international concerns over the rapidly escalating tensions.
4 Comments
Coccinella
Safety is paramount, and the government's concern for its nationals is valid. However, this move also signifies a severe deterioration of regional stability, which has broader implications beyond just Indian citizens.
Muchacho
Another overreaction creating unnecessary panic.
ZmeeLove
The advisory makes sense considering the threats from potential US strikes and internal unrest. Still, it's a harsh reality for students and business owners who have built lives in Iran and now face immediate displacement.
Habibi
It's understandable why India would issue such a warning given the volatile situation and regional military buildups. Yet, one hopes diplomacy, especially the ongoing nuclear talks, can still avert a full-blown crisis and allow people to return safely.