Indian nationals have begun making arrangements to leave Iran following a fresh advisory from the Indian Embassy in Tehran, as mass protests, a harsh security crackdown and renewed threats of US military action deepen uncertainty across the country.
The first group of Indian students is expected to start returning home beginning Friday, subject to local clearances and flight operations.
The embassy’s advisory, issued on January 14, asked all Indian citizens, including students, pilgrims, workers, businesspersons and tourists, to exit Iran immediately using available transport options, including commercial flights, as the situation continues to evolve.
Indians in Iran
Officials estimate that around 9,000 to 10,000 Indians are currently in Iran. This includes nearly 2000 medical students, around 4000 religious seminary students, about 2000 fishermen in coastal areas, and others working in small businesses, services or travelling on short-term visits.
Students are concentrated in Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, Kerman and Qom, while fishermen are primarily based along the southern coastline.
Student groups say travel plans have accelerated after Iranian authorities reopened the country’s airspace, which had been briefly shut amid fears of external military action.
Nasir Khuehami, national convenor of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, said several Indian students, including a limited number from Jammu and Kashmir, have booked flights and are likely to arrive in India starting Friday, depending on security approvals and airport conditions.
The Indian Embassy has advised nationals to avoid protest areas, monitor local developments, remain in contact with diplomatic officials and keep travel documents ready. The Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated that Indians should avoid all travel to Iran until further notice.
While authorities say contingency planning is underway, there has been no official announcement of a government-led evacuation operation so far.
For now, Indian nationals are relying on commercial flights, hoping the first returns expected from Friday will ease growing anxiety among families watching events in Iran with mounting concern.
