New Delhi, 5/1 : India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a stern travel advisory, urging its nationals to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice. The advisory, released on Monday, comes in response to a rapidly deteriorating security situation marked by widespread protests and demonstrations across the Middle Eastern nation.
The MEA has advised Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) currently residing in Iran to exercise utmost caution, steer clear of areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, and continuously monitor news updates. They are also urged to follow the official website and social media channels of the Embassy of India in Tehran for real-time information. Furthermore, Indian nationals living in Iran on resident visas are strongly encouraged to register with the Indian Embassy if they have not already done so, to ensure their safety and facilitate any necessary assistance.
The unrest in Iran reportedly began around December 28, when shopkeepers in Tehran initiated strikes over rising prices and economic stagnation. Since then, these demonstrations have rapidly escalated, transforming from initial economic grievances into broader political demands. Reports indicate that the protests have spread across a significant portion of the country, affecting at least 25 of Iran’s 31 provinces and impacting approximately 45 cities, with a notable concentration in smaller and medium-sized urban centers, particularly in the western regions. Cities such as Lordegan, Kuhdasht, and Isfahan have reportedly witnessed fatalities.
The escalating protests are fueled by severe economic challenges, including soaring inflation and a sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial against the US dollar. This economic strain has led to public outcries against the government’s handling of the crisis. Tragically, clashes between security forces and demonstrators have resulted in at least 12 to 14 reported deaths and scores of arrests since December 30, according to various human rights groups and local media. The growing instability has also drawn international attention, with US President Donald Trump previously warning Iran against using lethal force to suppress the peaceful protesters.
The Indian government’s advisory underscores the importance of the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad, urging them to prioritize caution and adherence to local regulations during this volatile period in Iran.
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