Amid ongoing protests in Iran, India issued a new travel advisory on Monday, warning its citizens against traveling to the Islamic Republic for non-essential purposes.
India and Iran are both members of BRICS,
The travel warning, issued by the South Asian country’s External Affairs Ministry, cited “recent developments” in Iran and noted the advisory was in effect “until further notice.”
"Indian citizens and PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin) currently in Iran should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and closely monitor news as well as the website and social media handles of the Embassy of India in Tehran,” the ministry stated.
The statement added that “Indian nationals living in Iran on resident visas are advised to register with the Indian Embassy, if not already done so.”
Protests in the Islamic Republic entered their ninth day on Monday. So far, according to Human Rights Activists in Iran’s news agency, HRANA, 19 protestors have lost their lives during the demonstrations. One Iranian security forces member has also reportedly been killed.
Further, according to the agency, 990 citizens have been arrested as the demonstrations reached “222 locations in 78 cities across 26 provinces.”
India issues travel advisory for Venezuela
Separately, following the US operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, India issued a new travel advisory for the South American country as well.
“In view of recent developments in Venezuela, Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela,” the embassy wrote. “All Indians who are in Venezuela for any reason are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements, and remain in contact with the Embassy of India in Caracas.”