India Advises Nationals to Leave Iran Amid Escalating Tensions

February 23, 2026

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued a strong advisory urging all Indian nationals currently in Iran including students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists to leave the country by all available means of transport, citing the evolving security situation and rising tensions in the region. The advisory was released on February 23, 2026, in view of the rapidly changing situation, particularly heightened concerns of conflict escalation in the Middle East involving Iran and the United States.

The embassy’s message, shared via its official social media post, reiterates earlier guidance issued on January 5 and January 14, 2026, but places greater emphasis on immediate departure due to the current environment of heightened risk. Indian nationals are advised to use commercial flights or any available means of transport to facilitate their return to India.

Reason Behind the Advisory: Regional Tensions Escalate

The advisory comes against the backdrop of a spike in military tensions between Iran and the United States, with growing fears of a broader conflict breaking out. Recent indirect talks between Iran and the U.S. mediated by Oman have continued alongside a visible military buildup, including deployment of U.S. aircraft carriers and warships to strategic positions in the Middle East. Analysts say this dual approach of negotiations alongside bolstered military presence has raised the specter of instability, prompting governments like India to take precautionary measures to protect their citizens.

In its advisory, the embassy also instructs Indians in Iran to exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and remain in close contact with the embassy for further updates. It has also asked nationals to closely monitor local media reports for the latest developments.

Comprehensive Safety Instructions for Indians in Iran

To assist its citizens during what the government describes as a period of “evolving situation,” the Indian Embassy in Tehran has provided several emergency contact numbers that can be reached for assistance:

• +989128109115

• +989128109109

• +989128109102

• +989932179359

Indians are also urged to have travel and immigration documents, such as passports and identification papers, readily accessible. This is to ensure that departures or any transit arrangements can be carried out without delay if circumstances deteriorate further.

The embassy further encourages all Indian nationals who have not yet registered with the mission in Tehran to do so through the Ministry of External Affairs’ online portal. In cases where internet access is disrupted within Iran, families back in India have been asked to register on behalf of their relatives.

Context: Continued Unrest in Iran and Safety Concerns

Iran has been a theatre of unrest and unrest-related instability, with widespread protests and demonstrations reported across multiple cities over the last year. These have at times been met with stringent crackdowns, resulting in fatalities and ongoing civil disturbances. The situation gained new urgency amid rising international tensions, particularly between Tehran and Washington, leading to foreign governments updating travel and safety advisories for their nationals.

India’s decision to reiterate and strengthen its advisory underscores the government’s priority on citizen safety abroad, especially as geopolitical risks in the region show signs of potential escalation. Last year, India conducted Operation Sindhu to evacuate thousands of its nationals from parts of Iran during earlier phases of conflict in the region, reflecting how swiftly conditions can deteriorate.

Diplomatic and Official Response

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi has stated that India is “closely monitoring” the situation in Iran and is in constant touch with its citizens and the Indian mission on the ground,” highlighting that protecting the safety of Indians abroad remains paramount.

The updated advisory and continued emphasis on prompt departure for Indian nationals highlight the seriousness of the security calculus in Iran and serve as a stern warning to rethink travel plans or residence in the country until further notice.