As tensions between Israel and Iran escalate into a full-blown regional crisis, India has issued a renewed advisory urging its nationals in Tehran to leave the city and relocate to safer areas. The Indian Embassy in Tehran released the statement early Tuesday (June 17) amid ongoing Israeli drone and missile strikes that have continued to target the Iranian capital for a fifth consecutive day.
"All Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who can move out of Tehran using their own resources are advised to move to a safe location outside the city," read the advisory. The embassy also requested those still in Tehran to immediately contact Indian officials and share their current location and contact information.
The move follows a dramatic statement from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged all residents of Tehran to "immediately evacuate" following another night of crossfire between Israel and Iran. The former president cut short his participation at the G7 summit to focus on the crisis.
Missile and drone exchanges between the two countries began Friday after Israel launched an unprecedented wave of air raids on key Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. The situation has deteriorated rapidly, with both nations activating their air defence systems and issuing civil shelter warnings.
Iran's health ministry reported at least 224 fatalities and more than 1,200 injuries due to Israeli strikes. Iran has responded with missile attacks on Israeli towns and cities, resulting in 24 reported deaths and nearly 600 injuries, according to Israeli authorities.
In a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue the offensive, outlining three key objectives: dismantling Iran's nuclear program, destroying its ballistic missile production facilities, and weakening Iran-backed militant networks in the region. He added that Israel's actions are "changing the face of the Middle East" and did not rule out targeting Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran has threatened to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), a move that could escalate the crisis further and trigger a broader international response.
With the humanitarian toll rising and the risk of a regional war increasing, several nations have advised their citizens to leave conflict zones immediately.
The Indian embassy has provided emergency contact numbers for citizens in Tehran: +98 9010144557, +98 9128109115, and +98 9128109109.
(With inputs from multiple news reports)
