India asks nationals to leave Iran amid fears of imminent US strike

India has issued a fresh advisory asking its nationals in Iran to leave the country using available means of transport, including commercial flights, amid growing fears of a possible US military strike. The advisory comes as tensions between Washington and Tehran intensify and reports suggest that a strike could be imminent despite ongoing nuclear deal negotiations.

The Indian Embassy in Tehran, in continuation of its January 5 advisory, urged students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists to exit Iran at the earliest. It also advised Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin to remain cautious, avoid protest-hit areas, stay in touch with the mission, and closely monitor local media updates. Nationals were asked to keep passports and identification documents readily accessible and seek assistance from the Embassy if required.

The development follows a significant US military build-up in the Middle East near Iran, including deployment of advanced naval and air assets. US President Donald Trump has warned that limited strikes remain an option if diplomatic efforts fail. At the same time, nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington are ongoing, with another round scheduled in Geneva later this week.

Iran has said it is prepared for any escalation but continues to stress that diplomacy is the preferred route. Meanwhile, fresh anti-government protests have erupted in parts of the country, with university students staging demonstrations in Tehran and other cities during memorial events for those killed in an earlier crackdown.