India’s Ministry of External Affairs advised its citizens on Monday to depart from Iran due to concerns over a potential US strike on Tehran. The Indian Embassy in Tehran stated on social media that Indian nationals currently in Iran should leave using available transportation, such as commercial flights. Approximately 10,000 Indian citizens are usually present in Iran, according to the foreign ministry.
The ministry emphasized that all Indian citizens and people of Indian origin (PIOs) should be cautious, avoid protest areas, stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Iran, and monitor local media for updates. This cautionary message was issued just before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled trip to Israel on Wednesday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Modi’s upcoming visit, highlighting the opportunity to strengthen an alliance against perceived “radical” adversaries. Modi previously visited Israel in 2017, with Netanyahu reciprocating the visit to India the following year. Modi expressed anticipation for the discussions during his Israel visit, emphasizing the enduring friendship between India and Israel based on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress in a social media post.
India has broadened cooperation with Israel in defense, agriculture, technology, and security sectors. Despite these ties, India maintains robust relations with Gulf nations, including Tehran, and has been involved in the development of Iran’s Chabahar port, a key trade route to Afghanistan. This strategic engagement has also fostered diplomatic relations with Taliban authorities in Afghanistan.