India on Monday urged its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran amid escalating protests in the country over inflation and the rising cost of living.
In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called on Indian nationals and people of Indian origin (PIOs) currently in Iran to exercise caution and stay away from areas witnessing protests or demonstrations.
“In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice,” the advisory said.
The MEA further advised Indian citizens and PIOs in Iran to closely monitor local news and follow updates issued through the Indian embassy’s website and official social media handles. Indian nationals residing in Iran on long-term visas were also asked to register with the Indian embassy.
About 10,000 Indians in Iran
There are an estimated 10,000 Indian nationals currently living in Iran, the majority of whom are students. Iran also receives a large number of Shia Muslim pilgrims from India each year.
Protests spread across Iran
The advisory comes amid the largest wave of protests in Iran in nearly three years, triggered initially by price rises and economic hardship but later expanding to include human rights-related grievances.
According to reports, around 15 people, including security personnel, have died since the protests began about a week ago. Demonstrations have been reported in 23 of Iran’s 31 provinces and in at least 40 cities, based on an AFP tally.
The protests started among traders and shopkeepers before spreading to students and residents of provincial cities.
US warning and Iranian response
The situation has drawn international attention after US President Donald Trump warned of possible intervention if Iranian authorities used excessive force against protesters.
“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 US,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday.
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the country “will not yield to the enemy,” while senior Iranian officials warned of potential retaliation against US forces in the region.
At the same time, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian struck a more conciliatory tone, directing the interior ministry to adopt a “kind and responsible” approach towards protesters.
“Society cannot be convinced or calmed by forceful approaches,” Pezeshkian said.
Economic crisis at the core
Iran has been grappling with inflation above 36% since March 2025, while the rial has lost nearly half its value against the US dollar, severely impacting daily life.
The crisis has been worsened by the resumption of Western sanctions over Iran’s nuclear programme. Global financial institutions have also warned of a possible recession in 2026, adding to public anxiety and unrest.