NEW DELHI,
India has advised its citizens to leave Iran as the country faces continuing unrest, with rights groups reporting thousands killed or arrested during a crackdown on mass protests.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, the Indian embassy in Tehran urged Indian nationals currently in Iran to depart using available transport options. The advisory applies to students, pilgrims, businesspeople and tourists.
India’s foreign ministry estimates that around 10,000 Indian citizens are usually present in Iran. Officials did not specify a deadline for departure but said the situation was being closely monitored.
The advisory comes amid heightened concern over security conditions in Iran, where protests have intensified in recent weeks. International human rights organisations say the authorities have responded with widespread arrests and the use of force.
India’s foreign ministry has not commented publicly on the political situation inside Iran but said the safety and security of Indian nationals remained its priority.
