MEA on alert as nearly 9,000 Indians in Iran face unrest, government committed to their return

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) – The Indian government is fully alert to the ongoing political and security situation in Iran. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a recent statement that India is closely monitoring developments in Iran. He added that approximately 9,000 Indian citizens are currently present in Iran, the largest number of whom are students.

The Ministry of External Affairs has issued three advisories so far in response to the current situation in Iran. These advisories advise Indian citizens against traveling to Iran until further notice. Indians living in Iran have been urged to consider options for leaving the country, keeping their safety in mind. The Ministry also clarified that all possible assistance will be provided to Indian citizens stranded there.

Kerala Government initiative, Norka Roots activates special helpdesk

Amid growing security concerns in Iran and fears of regional tensions, the Kerala government is also on alert mode. On the instructions of the Chief Minister's Office, Norka Roots has started a special helpdesk for Keralites living in Iran. Norka informed that needy Keralites can contact the Norka Global Contact Centre Helpdesk through the toll-free number or the international missed call facility.

The Ministry of External Affairs has advised

Indian citizens in Iran to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the Indian Embassy in Tehran. In case of emergency, citizens can contact the Embassy through helpline numbers or email. Indians living in Iran on resident visas have also been urged to register with the Embassy.

Protests in Iran subside somewhat, but tensions remain

Meanwhile, the situation in Iran appears to be calming down somewhat. Nationwide protests challenging the Islamic regime appeared to have weakened relatively on Thursday. However, activists claim that at least 2,615 people have died so far in the recent crackdown. A week ago, the authorities had largely isolated the country from the outside world.

Fears of US retaliation remain following the deaths of protesters. However, recent statements by US President Donald Trump have indicated a de-escalation of tensions.

International pressure on Iran has increased.

Meanwhile, the United States has imposed new sanctions on Iranian officials accused of suppressing protests against the economic and currency collapse last month. Furthermore, the G-7 countries and the European Union have also stated they are considering new sanctions to increase pressure on Iran's Islamic government. In this context, the United Nations Security Council has also called an emergency meeting on the situation in Iran at the request of the United States.