India issues travel warning for Iran amid escalating regional tensions
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Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, the Indian Embassy in Iran has issued an advisory urging Indian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the country.
The advisory, shared on Wednesday, highlights growing security concerns following weeks of intensified military action in the region.
"In view of the security-related developments over the past several weeks, Indian nationals are advised to carefully consider the evolving situation before undertaking non-essential travel to Iran," the Embassy stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The embassy also encouraged Indians in Iran to stay alert and follow any updated advisories issued by Indian authorities. Those currently in Iran and considering leaving were informed that “commercial flight and ferry options… are available right now.”
This warning comes in the wake of heightened hostilities triggered by Israel’s launch of ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13, during which Israeli forces targeted Iranian military and nuclear sites.
Iran responded with drone and missile attacks against Israeli locations.
The United States, reaffirming its support for Israel, retaliated with strikes on key Iranian nuclear installations at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan on June 22.
Iran then launched counterattacks on Israeli-controlled territories and a U.S. airbase in Qatar.
The 12-day conflict concluded on June 24 after Israel declared a unilateral ceasefire, an announcement made through U.S. President Donald Trump.
Tensions over Iran's nuclear programme continue to be at the heart of the crisis. While Washington has accused Tehran of pursuing nuclear weapons, Iran maintains its programme is strictly for civilian use.
The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a deal between Iran and global powers including the U.S., had previously placed strict limits on Iran's nuclear activity. However, the agreement fell apart in 2018 following the U.S. withdrawal under Trump’s administration.
Since then, Iran has surpassed the agreement's limits, enriching uranium to 60% purity - just shy of weapons-grade levels.
Further complicating matters, earlier this month Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed legislation suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), following its approval by Iran’s Parliament. State media confirmed the bill’s ratification, underscoring Iran’s shifting stance amid mounting international pressure.