India to Evacuate Citizens from Iran as Protests Escalate, Flights Likely Tomorrow

India is preparing to evacuate its nationals from Iran amid escalating unrest and growing safety concerns following widespread anti-government protests across the country. According to government sources, evacuation efforts are likely to begin as early as tomorrow, with the first batch of Indians expected to be flown out depending on logistical and security clearances.

Officials said the Ministry of External Affairs has activated contingency plans to facilitate the return of Indian citizens who wish to leave Iran. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has already begun identifying Indian students and other nationals across different regions of the country.

However, the evacuation exercise is facing operational challenges due to the continued suspension of internet services and intermittent phone connectivity in several parts of Iran. As a result, embassy officials are physically moving on the ground to contact students, collect travel details, and assess willingness to return.

Concerns over the safety of Indian nationals have intensified as protests, which began last month after a sharp collapse of the Iranian rial, have spread to all 31 provinces. What started as economic demonstrations have since evolved into broader political protests against the ruling establishment.

Human rights organisations have claimed that more than 3,400 people have been killed during the crackdown by Iranian security forces, while thousands more have reportedly been detained. The figures remain disputed by Iranian authorities, but the situation on the ground is widely viewed as volatile.

India estimates that over 10,000 Indians are currently residing in Iran, including students, pilgrims, business professionals and tourists. Earlier this week, India issued a formal advisory urging all its nationals to leave Iran by available means and avoid non-essential travel to the country.

The advisory also asked Indian citizens to keep passports and identification documents ready, stay away from protest areas, remain in close contact with the embassy and closely monitor local developments.

Diplomatic engagement is also underway. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has spoken with Iran’s foreign minister to discuss the evolving security situation and the safety of Indian nationals.

Government sources said evacuation plans will be executed in phases, depending on how the situation unfolds, and further advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.