Currently, approximately 10,000 Indians remain in Iran, including 2,500–3,000 students pursuing medical education. Given the deteriorating situation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been closely monitoring developments and had issued advisories against travel to Iran.
“The situation there is bad. The Indian government is helping us a lot, and the embassy informed us to leave Iran as soon as possible. With Modi, everything is possible,” said one returning student, describing the challenges faced during the unrest.
The protests began on 28 December 2025 following a sharp fall in the Iranian rial and widespread anger over rising prices and inflation. Demonstrations rapidly spread across all 31 provinces, with reports suggesting thousands of fatalities due to a violent crackdown by security forces. Internet and phone services have been largely suspended, making communication difficult for residents and foreign nationals alike.
Indians in Iran reported harassment by protesters, restricted movement, and difficulties in contacting the embassy during the height of the unrest. “When we went outside, protesters would stand in front of our cars and harass us. We couldn’t communicate with our families due to internet shutdowns,” said another returnee from Jammu and Kashmir.
The MEA has issued helpline numbers and email contacts for Indians in Iran seeking assistance. Citizens are advised to keep passports, visas, and essential documents ready and to register with the Indian embassy if they have not already done so. Families in India can also register on behalf of those in Iran if internet restrictions prevent direct registration.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been in touch with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to discuss the safety of Indian citizens. The MEA continues to coordinate evacuation efforts and closely monitor developments amid rising international tension and US warnings of potential military action in response to the violence.
The protests are reportedly driven by soaring inflation—basic commodities like tea and bread have become prohibitively expensive—the devaluation of the rial, traders’ strikes, and widespread dissatisfaction with the government. Many demonstrators are also challenging the authority of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and calling for political reforms.
With conditions remaining volatile, the Indian government has reiterated its advisories and emergency support for citizens still in Iran.
