New Delhi

Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, on Tuesday said that the situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran is under control and that there is no threat to Indian citizens or Indian interests, a day after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a travel advisory urging caution amid ongoing protests in the country.

“In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice,” the MEA said in its advisory.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with ANI, Ambassador Fathali said public order is being maintained and normalcy prevails across the country.

“The situation in Iran is under control, and diplomatic, economic and consular activities are functioning normally. I would like to state with full confidence that there is no threat to Indian citizens, like those of other countries residing in Iran,” he said, when asked about assurances regarding the safety of the Indian community.

Unrest broke out in Tehran on December 28, driven by mounting public frustration over Iran’s prolonged economic crisis, and has escalated into sporadic violent confrontations in recent days.

Addressing the broader developments, the Ambassador said the Islamic Republic of Iran recognises peaceful protest and the expression of public demands as legal rights within its democratic framework. He added that Iranian leaders, including the President, have emphasised the importance of addressing people’s concerns through lawful and civil channels.

However, Fathali alleged that certain foreign media outlets and external actors were exaggerating developments and spreading misleading narratives to inflame tensions and divert protests towards violence.

“A significant portion of what is being reported in some media outlets does not correspond to the realities on the ground and is largely the result of exaggeration, biased reporting and media-driven narratives,” he said.

Responding to statements by US leaders expressing support for protesters, the Ambassador termed such remarks as interference in Iran’s internal affairs, stating that turning a domestic issue into an instrument of political pressure and media warfare was unacceptable and contrary to international law.

Meanwhile, the MEA has advised Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) currently in Iran to exercise due caution, avoid areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, and closely monitor updates issued by the Indian Embassy in Tehran.

The ministry has also advised Indian nationals residing in Iran on resident visas to ensure they are registered with the Indian mission, if not already done so.