Evacuation of Indians in Iran:India is preparing contingency plans to evacuate its nationals from Iran amid growing regional tensions and uncertainty over possible military action by the United States against Tehran, official sources said on Thursday.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has advised all Indian citizens currently residing in Iran to leave the country using available commercial options and to avoid non-essential travel to the region as the security situation remains volatile.
“In view of the evolving situation in Iran, the Government of India is making preparations to facilitate the return of Indian nationals who wish to travel back,” official sources said.
Advisory Issued Amid Rising Tensions
The advisory comes against the backdrop of escalating unrest in Iran following a nationwide crackdown on protests, with Washington not ruling out military options against Tehran. While no immediate evacuation has been announced, officials said contingency measures are being readied to respond swiftly if the situation deteriorates further.
Indian missions in the region are reportedly maintaining close contact with community members, students, and professionals to assess ground conditions and provide assistance if required.
Indians in Iran
Thousands of Indian nationals live and work in Iran, including:
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Students pursuing medical and religious studies
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Professionals and traders
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Seafarers and technical workers
The MEA has urged Indian citizens to remain vigilant, follow local advisories, and stay in touch with the Indian Embassy.
Background: India’s Evacuation Operations
India has previously carried out large-scale evacuation missions from conflict zones, including Operation Ganga (Ukraine), Operation Kaveri (Sudan), and evacuations from Afghanistan, showcasing New Delhi’s ability to mobilise quickly during crises.
Diplomatic sources said any evacuation from Iran would depend on airspace availability, regional security dynamics, and coordination with Iranian authorities.
Why It Matters
Iran is a strategically important country for India, both geopolitically and economically. Any escalation in tensions could have wider implications for regional stability, energy security, and the safety of Indian nationals abroad, making preparedness critical.
For now, officials stressed that the advisory is precautionary, but urged Indian citizens to act responsibly and avoid unnecessary risks.