New Delhi

India on Wednesday issued a strong advisory urging its citizens to refrain from travelling to Iran amid a sharp deterioration in the country’s security situation, triggered by widespread anti-government protests and a forceful crackdown by authorities.

In a fresh statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Indian nationals should avoid travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice, citing the rapidly evolving situation on the ground.

“In view of the ongoing developments in Iran, Indian nationals are once again strongly advised not to undertake travel to the country,” the MEA said.

The advisory follows an earlier warning issued on January 5, in which the ministry had discouraged non-essential travel and asked Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) residing in Iran to remain vigilant and stay away from protest sites.

The unrest began in Tehran late last month after the Iranian rial plunged to historic lows, sparking demonstrations over economic hardship. The protests have since spread across all 31 provinces, gradually transforming into a broader movement calling for political change.

According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), the nationwide agitation has turned increasingly violent, with the reported death toll crossing 2,500 in recent days. The intensified crackdown has significantly worsened the overall security environment.

The situation has also heightened regional tensions in West Asia. US President Donald Trump has warned Tehran against using force to suppress demonstrators and has hinted at possible military action. Addressing protesters earlier this week, Trump said that “help is on the way,” further escalating concerns over potential international fallout.

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The MEA has advised Indians currently in Iran to exercise utmost caution and closely follow official updates as the situation continues to unfold.