India Urges Citizens to Leave Iran Amid Rising US Tensions
New Delhi, 23rd February 2026: Amid rising military tensions between Iran and the United States, the Indian Embassy in Iran has advised Indian nationals living there to leave the country at the earliest for their safety.
The advisory reiterates an earlier warning issued in January when the Iranian government was taking strict action against protesters. Officials said the renewed alert is a precautionary step in view of the evolving security situation.
The embassy has also released multiple helpline numbers to assist Indian citizens currently in Iran and urged them to register with the mission. In its statement, the embassy advised all Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin to remain cautious, avoid areas where protests or demonstrations are taking place, and stay in regular contact with embassy officials while monitoring local media for updates.
Speculation about a possible escalation intensified after former CIA officer John Kiriakou claimed that the United States could launch military action against Iran as early as Monday or Tuesday. Speaking on a podcast, he alleged that although President Donald Trump had publicly given Iran a 10-day window, there were indications from a contact at the White House that preparations for a strike were already complete.
— India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) February 23, 2026
Authorities have not confirmed any such military plans, and there has been no official statement from Washington regarding imminent action.
However, the Indian mission stressed that citizens should remain vigilant and prepared to relocate if the security situation deteriorates further.
