New Delhi, Jan 15: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has launched urgent contingency plans to evacuate over 10,000 Indian nationals currently residing in Iran. The decision follows a stark advisory issued Wednesday directing all Indian citizens—including students, pilgrims, and business professionals—to leave the country immediately by any available means.
Government sources noted on Thursday that the administration is exploring the use of both commercial and military transport aircraft for the repatriation effort. The move comes as regional security deteriorates, with the United States refusing to rule out military intervention in response to Tehran’s violent crackdown on nationwide protests.
“In view of the evolving situation in Iran, the Ministry of External Affairs is making preparations to facilitate the return of Indian nationals who wish to travel back to India,” official sources stated.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been instructed to maintain constant contact with the community, though officials mentioned that an ongoing internet shutdown in Iran is hampering communication. The first repatriation flights could potentially operate as early as Friday, focusing primarily on the safety of a large number of Indian students.
