Closely monitoring situation in Iran: MEA

Srinagar, Jan 16: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said it is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Iran and has issued advisories for Indian nationals, while clarifying that India’s engagement at the Chabahar port is continuing under a conditional US sanctions waiver.
Responding to queries during the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said around 9,000 Indian nationals are currently present in Iran. He said they include students, businesspersons, professionals, pilgrims and seafarers.
“In view of the prevailing situation, we have issued advisories asking Indian nationals to avoid all travel to Iran. Those who are already residing there have been advised to leave by available means, including commercial flights,” Jaiswal said.
He added that the government is keeping a close watch on developments and will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and welfare of Indians in the country. “We continue to closely monitor the unfolding situation and will act as required to safeguard our citizens,” he said.
On India’s involvement at Iran’s Chabahar port, the MEA clarified that operations are continuing under an existing US sanctions exemption. Jaiswal said that on October 28, 2025, the US Department of the Treasury issued guidance on a conditional sanctions waiver, valid until April 26, 2026.
“We remain engaged with the US side to operationalise this arrangement,” he said.
The Chabahar port project, which is strategically important for regional connectivity and access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, has been treated as a special case under US sanctions on Iran, with periodic waivers granted subject to specific conditions and close coordination between India and the United States. (KINS)