India Steps Up Efforts To Help Citizens In Iran As West Asia Tensions Rise

India has accelerated diplomatic and logistical efforts to support its citizens stranded in Iran while also monitoring maritime safety and energy security concerns amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed on Thursday that authorities are actively assisting Indian nationals in the region. Officials also continue coordinating measures to ensure safe navigation of shipping routes vital for India’s energy supply.

According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, approximately 9,000 Indians currently reside in Iran. The community includes students, seafarers, professionals, businesspersons and religious pilgrims.

Many individuals, particularly students, have already returned to India following earlier advisories issued by the government.

Authorities have also relocated several citizens from Tehran to comparatively safer cities within Iran. The step aims to reduce risks while diplomatic efforts continue.

The government has further facilitated evacuation routes through neighbouring countries.

Indian nationals seeking to depart Iran are receiving assistance with visas and border procedures for travel to Azerbaijan and Armenia.

From these countries, citizens can board commercial flights back to India. Officials confirmed that several individuals have already crossed the borders using this arrangement.

The MEA also urged Indians planning to leave Iran by land to carefully follow the advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in Tehran on March 9.

The embassy continues to maintain constant communication with the Indian community and provide necessary assistance.

Diplomatic engagement, however, remains active. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held multiple telephone conversations with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in recent weeks.

Their discussions focused on the evolving regional conflict, the safety of maritime trade routes, and potential implications for India’s energy security.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Raises Alarm Over Gas And LPG Supply Situation In India