The Indian Embassy in Iran issued a travel advisory on July 16, 2025. It urges citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran. Rising tensions in the Middle East prompted the warning.

Indian nationals in Iran are advised to stay vigilant. They should consider leaving via commercial flights or ferry services. The embassy posted the advisory on X, citing recent security concerns.
Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict
Tensions stem from a 12-day conflict in June 2025. Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” on June 13, targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets.
The U.S. joined with “Operation Midnight Hammer” on June 22, striking Iranian nuclear facilities in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. A ceasefire was declared on June 24, but the region remains volatile. Iran denies pursuing nuclear weapons, while the U.S. and Israel express concerns.
Indian Citizens’ Safety Measures
Around 10,000 Indian nationals, including 7,500 students, are in Iran. The embassy advises monitoring regional news closely. It recommends using available commercial flights and ferries for exit.
Land border crossings to Armenia and Türkiye are also options. Over 700 Indians have relocated to safer cities like Qom. About 110 students crossed into Armenia via the Agarak border. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs set up a 24/7 control room to assist.
The conflict revolves around Iran’s nuclear program. Iran began enriching uranium to 60% purity in 2019, close to weapons-grade levels. The U.S. withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018, escalating tensions. In June 2025, Israel bombed a secret Tehran facility, reportedly injuring Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Iran suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency in early July. Western nations fear Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while Tehran insists its program is for civilian use.
International Response and Diplomacy
Global powers are reacting to the situation. China and Turkey urged de-escalation between Iran and Israel. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to mediate. The U.S. State Department warned Americans against traveling to Iran, citing risks for dual nationals.
Iran’s top diplomat visited Saudi Arabia to discuss regional stability. Posts on X suggest India negotiated special evacuation flights, with one carrying 1,000 students landing in Delhi on June 20. However, these claims lack official confirmation.
Ongoing Risks and Disinformation
The region faces continued instability. Iran expelled over 500,000 Afghan refugees since June, citing security concerns. Social media has become a battlefield for propaganda. Israel and Iran used disinformation during the conflict, including false claims about strikes on key sites.
A satellite image falsely captioned as showing damage to Israel’s Weizmann Institute circulated online. Iran’s army chief signaled readiness for prolonged conflict, raising fears of further escalation. The Indian Embassy continues to monitor the situation and update citizens.

The Indian Embassy’s advisory reflects growing concerns about safety in Iran. The recent Israel-Iran conflict, centered on nuclear disputes, has heightened regional tensions. Indian citizens are urged to stay cautious and explore exit options like flights and ferries.
The situation remains fluid, with disinformation and military rhetoric adding challenge. India’s proactive measures, including relocation efforts and control rooms, aim to ensure citizen safety. As global powers call for calm, the Middle East’s stability hangs in the balance.