India issues fresh advisory to leave Iran as protests escalate

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued a fresh advisory in view of the evolving situation in Iran. In the alert, Indian Nationals who are currently in the protest hit country amid rising regional tensions are advised to leave Iran by any available means of transport, including commercial flights.

This comes after heightened tensions in the regions, including the concerns of a possible US military action against Iran and protests in parts of the country, in which 2500 people have been reported dead.

On the international front, the US has warned of potential strikes unless Iran eases its response to the demonstrations. President Donald Trump, speaking Tuesday, rallied protesters to persist, seize key institutions, and expect support soon.

“It is reiterated that all Indian citizens and PIOS should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and monitor local media for any developments.”, the embassy reiterated.

The embassy advised Indian nationals in Iran to keep all immigration documents handy. "All Indian nationals in Iran are requested to also have their travel and immigration documents, including passports and IDs, readily available with them. They are requested to contact the Indian Embassy for any assistance in this regard.," the advisory stated.

The embassy has also launched emergency helplines, along with several phone numbers and an official email, to provide consular help. It encouraged unregistered Indians in Iran to sign up via the Ministry of External Affairs' online portal, and asked relatives back home to handle registrations if local internet issues arise.

Sparking from severe economic woes like skyrocketing living costs and the national currency plummeting to a record 1.4 million rials per US dollar, the protests in the oil-rich Islamic Republic have stretched into their third week.

Long under international sanctions that have weakened its economy, Iran now faces its fiercest unrest in ten years, posing a major challenge to its religious leadership.