Tehran/New Delhi, Jan 5 (NationPress) The Indian government on Monday issued a warning for its citizens to refrain from non-essential travel to Iran until further notice, due to ongoing developments in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised, "Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) in Iran must exercise caution, steer clear of protest zones, and stay updated through news and the Embassy of India in Tehran's website and social media channels."

It further noted, "Indian nationals residing in Iran on long-term visas are encouraged to register with the Indian Embassy if they haven't already."

Iran is currently experiencing significant protests across various cities due to the drastic fall in the national currency, rial.

Conflicts between security forces and demonstrators have led to multiple fatalities in different provinces.

Earlier on Monday, US President Donald Trump cautioned Iran against resorting to violence to suppress protests, stating that the United States is closely observing the situation and would take strong measures if Iranian authorities resort to lethal force against civilians.

While returning to the White House aboard Air Force One from Mar-a-Lago, Trump was questioned about reports regarding fatalities among protesters in Iran and reiterated the US's readiness. "We’ll take a look," he mentioned. "We’re watching it very closely."

Trump emphasized the consequences of any lethal actions by Iranian authorities, stating, "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."

Although the President did not specify the nature of a possible US response, the US has already stationed significant military resources in the vicinity.

Trump's remarks reflect that Washington is diligently monitoring developments in Iran and evaluating its options, although he did not provide a specific timeframe or trigger for action. "We’re watching it very closely," he reiterated.

While not making direct comparisons, Trump's warning came after strong criticisms aimed at other nations like Venezuela and Cuba, which he described as destabilizing forces.

In the past, Trump has accused Iran of brutally quelling dissent during prior protests and has utilized economic sanctions and military deterrence as methods of pressure. In this context, he refrained from announcing new actions, focusing instead on vigilance and preparedness.

"If they start killing people," he reiterated, underlining the conditions under which US intervention could occur.