Amid escalating security concerns in Iran, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has relocated most Indian students from the capital to safer locations outside the city. In an advisory issued on March 3, the mission cited a heightened risk perception in Tehran and said transport, food and accommodation had been arranged for those moved. A small number of students remain in the city after declining the relocation offer.
The embassy reiterated earlier guidance for Indian nationals still in Iran, urging them to remain indoors as far as possible, avoid windows and stay away from areas where protests or demonstrations may occur. Citizens have been advised to exercise caution, maintain regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran and closely monitor further updates as the Iran security crisis continues to unfold.
The Centre said it is closely monitoring developments across West Asia and remains in touch with Indian missions in the Gulf region to ensure the safety of stranded Indians. The Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewed the evolving situation and directed departments to take necessary measures to assist citizens. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said evacuation plans are in place and coordination with embassies is ongoing.
Widespread Gulf airspace disruption has affected commercial operations, prompting airlines to announce relief flights to India, subject to approvals and airspace conditions. IndiGo is planning special flights from Jeddah to cities including Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Ahmedabad. Air India has extended the suspension of several Middle East services, while Air India Express said it would resume limited flights to and from Muscat. Etihad Airways, Emirates and other carriers are operating restricted services as conditions permit.
State governments have activated helplines and emergency control rooms as families report distress. Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have initiated support mechanisms for residents affected by the crisis. Officials estimate that around 9,000 Indians, including many students, remain in Iran as regional tensions linked to US Israel strikes continue to disrupt travel and heighten uncertainty across West Asia. Authorities have stressed that flight schedules remain fragile and subject to short notice changes while contingency measures are scaled up.
