INDIA URGES CITIZENS TO AVOID NON ESSENTIAL TRAVEL TO IRAN
Why in News?
- On January 5, 2026, India issued a travel advisory asking its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran.
- The advisory comes amid widespread protests in Iran over inflation, currency collapse, and worsening economic conditions.
ADVISORY ISSUED
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised:
- Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran until further notice.
- Indians already in Iran to exercise due caution.
- Citizens to stay away from protest and demonstration areas.
- Regular monitoring of updates from the Indian Embassy in Tehran.
Advice for Indians living in Iran
- Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) residing in Iran were asked to:
- Register with the Indian Embassy if not already registered.
- Closely follow local news and official embassy advisories.
- Limit movement and avoid crowded public places during unrest.
WHAT TRIGGERED PROTESTS IN IRAN?
- Protests began around nine days earlier in Tehran and later spread nationwide.
- Around 25 out of 31 provinces in Iran have witnessed demonstrations.
- The unrest was triggered by:
- Sharp fall of the Iranian rial against the US dollar.
- Rising inflation and cost of living.
- Reports indicate that over 10 people have died during the protests.
SCALE & NATURE OF UNREST
- Demonstrations have expanded beyond Tehran to major cities and provinces.
- Protesters are demanding economic relief and accountability.
- Security forces have been deployed in several regions.
THE US ANGLE
- Donald Trump, the US President, issued strong warnings to Iran:
- He cautioned against any violent crackdown on protesters.
- He stated that Iran would be “hit very hard” if more civilians were killed.
- Trump also mentioned that the US was “watching very closely”.
Recent US–Iran tensions
- The warning comes amid already strained relations between the US and Iran.
- In June 2025, the United States had carried out air strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
- The current unrest adds another layer of regional instability.
WHY THE ADVISORY MATTERS FOR INDIA?
- India has a sizable diaspora in Iran, including students, professionals, and traders.
- Unrest could disrupt:
- Local transportation
- Communication networks
- Access to essential services
- The advisory aims to ensure safety of Indian nationals and prevent emergency evacuation situations.
CONCLUSION
- India’s travel advisory reflects growing concern over internal instability in Iran.
- Citizens have been advised to remain alert, informed, and cautious.
- The situation remains fluid, and further advisories may follow depending on developments.
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