India advises citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran amid unrest

A man walks near an anti-US and anti-Israeli billboard displayed on a building in Tehran, Iran, on January 4, 2026. Photo: West Asia News Agency via Reuters

Media reports claim that protests have spread to 26 of Iran’s 31 provinces

NEW DELHI (TIP): India on Monday advised its nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran in view of the deteriorating internal security situation triggered by widespread anti-government protests across the country.

In an advisory issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), currently in Iran, have been asked to exercise due caution, steer clear of protest sites and demonstrations, and closely monitor local developments through the website and social media handles of the Indian Embassy in Tehran.

“Indian nationals living in Iran on resident-visas are advised to register with the Indian Embassy, if not already done so,” the advisory said, adding that the guidance would remain in force until further notice.

The advisory comes amid a fresh wave of protests in Iran, sparked by a worsening economic crisis, which has now entered its ninth day. Demonstrations were reported on Sunday in Tehran and several provinces, including Fars, Ilam, North Khorasan and Semnan, according to videos circulating online.

Media reports claimed that protests have spread to 26 of Iran’s 31 provinces since last week, with at least 19 protesters and one member of the security forces killed so far.

The unrest has drawn sharp international attention, with US President Donald Trump renewing warnings of possible American action if Iranian authorities resort to violent crackdowns. “We’re watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they’re going to get hit very hard by the United States,” Trump said.

India has maintained regular contact with its diplomatic mission in Tehran and is monitoring the situation closely. Officials said further advisories would be issued depending on how the situation evolves.

Iran hosts a sizable Indian community, including students, professionals and workers, and is also a key regional partner for India, particularly in connectivity and energy-related initiatives.

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