Srinagar/New Delhi, Jan 15 — India has begun making contingency plans to evacuate its nationals from Iran as tensions escalate and the United States has not ruled out military action against Tehran, official sources said on Thursday.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday advised all Indian citizens in Iran to leave the country by available means and avoid any travel to the country.
“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 said.
The government is also exploring the option of using both civil and military transport aircraft to bring back Indians, sources added.
According to estimates, a little over 10,000 Indians, including students, are currently residing in Iran.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued an advisory asking students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists to leave Iran by available means of transport.
“All Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin are advised to exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and remain in contact with the embassy,” the mission said.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir government has nominated a nodal officer to coordinate with central agencies for the welfare and safety of residents and students from the region who are currently in Iran.
“Concerned about the safety and well-being of J&K residents, including students, presently in Iran, the Government has nominated the Additional Resident Commissioner, New Delhi, as Nodal Officer to coordinate with MEA and the Indian Embassy in Iran for documentation, advisories and welfare support,” the Office of the Chief Minister said in a post.
Families seeking assistance have been asked to contact the following helplines:
CM Helpline: 1800-8900-166
Hello J&K: 7303620090
Control Room: 011-24611108, 011-24611210, 0194-2501955