India has issued travel advisories for its citizens in both Israel and Iran amid escalating regional tensions. The advisories reflect growing concerns over safety and security in the region.
Advisories for Israel and Iran
The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv is urging all Indian nationals in Israel to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines from Israeli authorities, including the Home Front Command (https://oref.org.il/eng). Non-essential travel to Israel is also discouraged. Indian citizens in Israel can contact the embassy’s 24/7 helpline at +972-54-7520711 or +972-54-3278392, or via email at [email protected].
Simultaneously, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is strongly advising Indian citizens to avoid travel to Iran altogether. Those currently in Iran – including students, pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists – are being urged to depart immediately using commercial flights. The Embassy in Tehran has reiterated this call.
Diplomatic Engagement
These advisories follow a telephone conversation on Wednesday between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, during which they discussed the evolving situation in and around Iran. Jaishankar noted the call in a post on X.
Indian nationals in Iran are advised to exercise caution, avoid protests and demonstrations, and remain in contact with the Indian Embassy. They are also asked to ensure their travel documents are readily available. Emergency contact numbers for the Embassy in Tehran are +989128109115, +989128109109, +989128109102, and +989932179359. Email contact is [email protected]. Citizens can register with the embassy at https://www.meaers.com/request/home.
Regional Context
The advisories come as protests escalate in Iran, with clashes between protesters and security forces. Reports indicate a death toll ranging from under 3,000 to over 12,000, according to the Times of Israel. Iran’s airspace has been temporarily closed. According to a report from Dawn, Iran’s envoy to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, stated that US President Donald Trump assured Tehran he would not attack, but also cautioned Iran to exercise restraint. Moghadam also stated that Iran would target US and Israeli installations if attacked.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should Indian nationals in Israel do?
Indian nationals in Israel are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to safety guidelines issued by Israeli authorities, and avoid non-essential travel. They can contact the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv for assistance.
What is the current advice for travel to Iran?
The MEA strongly advises Indian citizens to avoid all travel to Iran until further notice. Those already in Iran are urged to leave immediately using available commercial flights.
What emergency contact information is available for Indian citizens in Iran?
Indian nationals in Iran can contact the Embassy in Tehran at +989128109115, +989128109109, +989128109102, +989932179359, or via email at [email protected].
Given the evolving situation, what steps might individuals take to stay informed and prepared if they have family or travel plans in the region?
