As tensions soar in the Middle East following a series of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities, the Indian government has issued advisories for its nationals in both Iran and Israel. With thousands of Indian citizens living in the region, authorities have urged them to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement, and closely follow local safety protocols.
Indian embassies issue alerts amid airstrikes
The Embassy of India in Tehran posted a safety advisory on social media on Saturday, asking all Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin in Iran to stay alert due to the deteriorating security situation. “Avoid all unnecessary movements, follow the Embassy’s social media updates, and comply with safety instructions given by local authorities,” the advisory said.
The alert comes in the wake of Israeli military airstrikes that reportedly targeted sites in key Iranian cities including Tehran, Natanz, Tabriz, Isfahan, Arak, and Kermanshah. Iranian state-run media claimed that among those killed were some nuclear scientists and Hossein Salami, commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), though these reports remain unverified by independent sources.
In a parallel move, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv also advised Indian nationals to exercise caution. The embassy’s post directed them to stay informed via Israeli authorities and the official Home Front Command website, adding, “Avoid unnecessary travel within Israel and remain close to designated safety shelters.”
No evacuation planned yet, situation under watch
India has a significant population in both countries. Over 4,000 Indians, including students, academics, and traders, reside in Iran, mostly in Tehran and a few other cities. In Israel, the Indian population recently increased to more than 32,000, with many employed in caregiving and construction, following a surge in hiring after restrictions on Palestinian workers.
Officials familiar with the matter said that while the situation is being closely monitored by the Indian government, there are no immediate plans to evacuate Indian nationals from either country. All steps are reportedly being taken to ensure their safety and provide necessary assistance if required. Indian missions in both Iran and Israel remain active and continue to communicate with the community.
