New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that it is vigilantly observing the rapidly evolving circumstances in Iran and guarantees that it will implement all essential actions for the well-being of Indian citizens.

During a weekly press conference in New Delhi on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal indicated that approximately 9,000 Indian nationals currently live in Iran, encompassing students, business professionals, pilgrims, and seafarers.

“In light of the situation there, we have released several advisories urging Indian nationals to refrain from all travel to Iran and advising those already in Iran to depart using available means, including commercial flights. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and take all necessary measures for the safety of our people,” Jaiswal stated.

Protests in Iran began due to dire economic circumstances, marked by unprecedented inflation and a collapsing currency, and have since spread throughout the country. Protesters are voicing their discontent and demanding substantial political reforms and governance changes.

On January 5, India advised its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran until further notice, citing recent developments in the nation. Additionally, it requested Indian nationals residing in Iran on resident visas to register with the Indian Embassy, should they not have done so already.

When questioned about reports suggesting that India has withdrawn from the Chabahar Port project, Jaiswal mentioned, “On October 28, 2025, the US Department of Treasury issued guidance on the conditional sanctions waiver valid until April 26, 2026. We continue to engage with the US in working out this arrangement.”

Last year, the US extended a six-month sanctions waiver allowing India to maintain its operations at Chabahar Port, effective from October 29.

In 2024, India and Iran entered a 10-year agreement to develop the Shahid Beheshti terminal. However, the US Secretary of State nullified the sanctions exception provided in 2018 under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act (IFCA) for Afghanistan reconstruction assistance and economic development, effective September 29.

This revocation affected those involved with Chabahar Port or other activities subjected to US sanctions. Nevertheless, India plans to continue developing and operating the terminal at least until April without facing punitive sanctions from Washington. The port is vital for India's access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, allowing it to bypass Pakistan for trade and connectivity.