New Delhi: Amidst the tense atmosphere prevailing in Iran for some time, the Central Government has clarified the situation regarding the safety of Indian citizens living there. Foreign Minister S. In response to a question in the Lok Sabha, Jaishankar said that the government is constantly monitoring the situation and there is no reason to panic.
He informed the House that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is in constant touch with the approximately 9,000 to 10,000 Indian nationals and students present there. Necessary advice and instructions are being given to all of them from time to time. The External Affairs Minister also clarified that Iran’s airspace is completely open and regular flights to India are being operated, hence Indian citizens cannot be considered stranded.
Government’s travel advisory and current situation
The government had issued two travel advisories this year on January 5 and 14, 2026. Through these advisories, Indians were advised to avoid non-essential travel to Iran. Also, citizens who are already in Iran have been asked to remain cautious and consider returning via commercial flights.
The External Affairs Minister stressed that since regular flight services are continuing, no special evacuation operation has been planned. He told that on January 14, 2026, he had taken stock of the situation by talking to the Foreign Minister of Iran on phone. India is in touch with various parties on this entire matter.
How many Indians in Iran and the previous evacuation operation
According to government data, around 9,000 to 10,000 Indian citizens currently live in 16 different provinces of Iran. These include students, workers, pilgrims, tourists, businessmen and professionals associated with the maritime sector.
S. Jaishankar also reminded that the last large-scale evacuation operation from Iran was conducted in June 2025. Under ‘Operation Sindhu’, 3,597 Indian citizens were brought back safely during the tensions between Iran and Israel. The government has made it clear that if the situation worsens in future, further decisions will be taken after reviewing the situation.
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