‘Avoid Iran travel’: MEA issues fresh advisory for Indians amid unrest

New Delhi, Jan 14: India, on Wednesday, strongly advised its nationals to avoid travelling to Iran as the security situation in the country deteriorated further in view of massive anti-government protests and a crackdown on the demonstrators.

"In view of the ongoing developments in Iran, Indian nationals are once again strongly advised to avoid travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a fresh advisory.

It has also asked Indian citizens and PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin) residing in Iran to exercise due caution and avoid visiting areas of protests.

"It is reiterated that all Indian citizens and PIOs (persons of Indian origin) should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and monitor local media for any developments," it said.

In a previous advisory issued on January 5, the MEA had urged its nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran.

The overall situation in the last few days has deteriorated dramatically as the death toll from the nationwide protests has increased to over 2,500, according to US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).

The protests in the country have also triggered wider tensions in West Asia after US President Donald Trump warned Tehran against a brutal crackdown on demonstrators, indicating US military strikes.

In a message to the protesters, Trump said on Tuesday that "help is on the way".

The protests began late last month in Tehran after Iranian currency rial plunged to record lows. The protests have since spread to all 31 provinces, evolving from an agitation against economic woes to demand for political change.

Meanwhile, Iran's top judge hinted at fast trials and executions for those who were detained in nationwide protests against the country's theocracy.

Iran's judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, made the comments despite a warning from US President Donald Trump that he would "take very strong action" if executions take place.

Activists have said hat Starlink is offering free service in Iran. The satellite internet service has been key in getting around an internet shutdown launched by the theocracy on January 8.

Iran began allowing people to call out internationally on January 13 via their mobile phones, but calls from people outside the country into Iran remain blocked.

PTI