India Advises Caution for Nationals in Iran Amid Protests; Trump Warns of Forceful US Response

New Delhi, Jan 2026 : India on Monday issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran until further notice, following escalating unrest in several Iranian cities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised Indians and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) currently in Iran to exercise caution, avoid areas of demonstrations, and closely follow local news updates as well as official channels of the Indian Embassy in Tehran.

The advisory also encouraged Indian nationals residing in Iran on resident visas to register with the embassy if they had not already done so, ensuring better coordination and assistance in case of emergencies.

Iran has been witnessing widespread protests in response to the sharp depreciation of the national currency, the rial. Demonstrations in multiple cities have occasionally turned violent, with reports of clashes between protestors and security forces resulting in several fatalities in different provinces.

The unrest has drawn international attention. On Monday, US President Donald Trump commented on the situation while returning to the White House aboard Air Force One from Mar-a-Lago. Asked about reports of protester deaths in Iran, Trump emphasised that the United States is closely monitoring developments and would respond strongly if Iranian authorities resort to lethal force against civilians.

Trump stated, “If they start killing people as they have in the past, I think they’re going to get hit very hard by the United States.” While he did not outline the specific nature of any potential response, nor mention immediate military or economic measures, he stressed that Washington is actively tracking events and evaluating options.

The US President’s remarks highlighted the red line concerning violence against civilians. He reiterated, “We’re watching it very closely,” signalling vigilance without specifying a timeline or trigger for action. His comments came amid a broader pattern of US statements on countries deemed destabilising in their regions, including Venezuela and Cuba.

Trump has a history of criticising Iran for suppressing dissent and using a combination of economic sanctions and military deterrence to exert pressure. In his latest comments, he refrained from announcing new measures, choosing instead to underline readiness and caution.

Meanwhile, the unrest in Iran continues to pose a significant risk to foreign nationals and residents. Authorities and international observers have noted the volatile situation, particularly as protests intensify around major urban centers and key government institutions.

With the combination of domestic unrest in Iran and international attention, both Indian and US authorities have called for prudence and close monitoring. The Indian MEA’s advisory reflects an effort to protect citizens while facilitating communication and emergency support through embassy channels.

As the situation develops, Indian nationals in Iran are advised to stay updated, avoid protest sites, and follow guidance from local authorities and the Indian Embassy, ensuring personal safety amid continuing unrest.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)