On January 5, 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs released a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to refrain from non-essential travel to Iran until further notice, citing recent developments in the region. Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin currently in Iran are advised to exercise caution, steer clear of areas experiencing protests or demonstrations, and keep updated with news and advisories from the Embassy of India in Tehran. Those residing in Iran on resident visas are also encouraged to register with the Indian embassy, if they haven’t done so already.
This advisory follows Iran’s most significant wave of protests in three years, representing the most serious unrest since 2022. Protests began in Tehran on December 29, 2025, after merchants closed their shops due to a significant decline in the value of the Iranian rial, quickly spreading to various cities and rural areas. Students from at least ten universities participated in the protests, which later expanded to multiple regions.
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Economic distress has fueled much of the public frustration. The national currency has depreciated by over 50% in approximately a year, with one US dollar priced at around 1.4 million rials. Official inflation was recorded at 42.5% in December, with food prices soaring by 72% year-on-year and medical expenses increasing by nearly 50%.
The ongoing unrest is compounded by months of pressure from water shortages, conflict-related challenges, and enduring sanctions. Protests have been observed in cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, and Kermanshah, highlighting the widespread nature of the turmoil.
(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)
