The MEA has issued an advisory asking Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran
Expressing deep concern at the escalation of the security situation in West Asia after Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles towards Israel on Tuesday (October 1, 2024), India has reiterated its call for restraint, urging that all issues be settled through dialogue and diplomacy.

“We are deeply concerned at the escalation of (the) security situation in West Asia and reiterate our call for restraint by all concerned and protection of civilians,” the MEA said in a statement issued on Wednesday (October 2, 2024). The MEA also issued an advisory asking Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran.

The MEA urged that issues be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy to prevent the conflict from getting bigger. “It is important that the conflict doesn’t take a wider regional dimension and we urge that all issues be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy,” the MEA stated.

Given the evolving situation amid fears of an escalation of the conflict in the region, MEA has also issued an advisory asking Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran. It has also advised those who reside in the country to keep in touch with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. 

“We are closely monitoring the recent escalation in (the) security situation in the region. Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran. Those currently residing in Iran are requested to remain vigilant and stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran,” the MEA said in its advisory.

Tensions in the West Asia region escalated sharply on Tuesday after Iran launched nearly 180 ballistic missiles against Israel in retaliation against the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Air raid sirens went off across Israel and thousands of Israelis were rushed into bomb shelters.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the attack, stating that Iran had made a big mistake. He also warned Tehran that it would have to pay for its actions.

Earlier this week, speaking with Prime Minister Netanyahu on the recent developments in West Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said terrorism had no place in our world, He also said that it was crucial to prevent regional escalation, adding that India was committed to supporting efforts for early restoration of peace. 

"Spoke to Prime Minister @netanyahu about recent developments in West Asia. Terrorism has no place in our world. It is crucial to prevent regional escalation and ensure the safe release of all hostages. India is committed to supporting efforts for an early restoration of peace and stability,” Prime Minister Modi posted on social media platform X on Monday (September 30. 2024).