Iran Foreign Minister Calls S Jaishankar Over Unrest In Iran; How Are India-Iran Relations?

As unrest continues to grow in Iran, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi spoke to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar over the phone to discuss the developing situation. Jaishankar confirmed the conversation through a post on social media platform X.

In his post, Jaishankar said that the two leaders spoke about the evolving conditions in and around Iran. The call comes at a time when protests across the country have intensified, raising serious concerns for foreign nationals living there.

Indian Embassy Urges Nationals to Leave Iran

Following the escalation of violence, the Indian Embassy in Iran issued an advisory asking all Indian nationals to leave the country at the earliest. The advisory applies to students, pilgrims, businesspersons, and tourists. Indians have been advised to use any available means of travel, including commercial flights.

The embassy also asked citizens to keep their passports, identity cards, and other travel documents ready at all times. Indians were urged to stay in touch with the embassy and seek assistance whenever needed.

Caution Advised Amid Rising Violence

The advisory further warned Indian citizens to avoid protest sites and public demonstrations. It asked them to remain alert, follow local news closely, and stay in regular contact with the Indian Embassy.

Officials stressed that safety should be the top priority as the situation continues to change rapidly on the ground.

Calls for Evacuation of Indian Students

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to urgently arrange evacuation for Kashmiri students stranded in Iran. The association said the security situation has worsened significantly, leaving students anxious and vulnerable.

Families of students have also expressed concern as clashes continue to spread across the country.

Protests Enter 20th Day, Death Toll Rises

The political crisis in Iran has now entered its 20th day. Protests against the Khamenei government began over high inflation and the steady fall of the Iranian currency. Over time, demonstrations have turned violent in many places.

Reports suggest clashes have occurred at more than 280 locations across the country. The death toll has reportedly reached 2,500, making the unrest one of the deadliest in recent years.

US Issues Warnings Amid Regional Tensions

Amid the crisis, US President Donald Trump urged protesters not to back down and encouraged them to take control of their institutions. He said support was on the way but did not provide further details.

The Trump administration also advised some personnel to leave the US-run Al Udeid Air Base as a precaution. This move followed a warning from Iran to neighbouring countries hosting US military bases, threatening strikes if the US launches any attack on Iranian territory.

The situation remains tense as global powers closely monitor developments in the region.

How's India-Iran Relations?

India and Iran are trying to manage a careful and difficult relationship as they complete 75 years of diplomatic ties. Both countries still want to stay connected, but growing global and regional problems have made the partnership more complicated.

A key part of India-Iran relations is the Chabahar Port agreement. India signed a 10-year deal to operate this port because it gives India an important route to Central Asia and Russia through the International North-South Transport Corridor. This route helps India trade without relying on Pakistan and is seen as strategically important.

However, the relationship is under pressure due to decisions taken outside the region. In January 2026, US President Donald Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on any country that continues trade with Iran. This put India in a difficult position. India's trade with Iran is much smaller, worth about $1.68 billion, compared to its much larger trade with the United States, which is around $86.5 billion. New Delhi now has to balance its strategic interests with Iran against its economic ties with Washington.

The situation inside Iran has also added to India's concerns. Large anti-government protests have spread across the country, leading India to issue travel advisories for its citizens. Indian students, pilgrims, and businesspeople have been advised to stay alert or leave, increasing uncertainty in bilateral relations.

Despite these challenges, India has not completely stepped back from Iran. It continues to engage with Tehran through international platforms like BRICS, which India is chairing this year. India has also kept limited trade open in areas not affected by sanctions, such as Basmati rice and medicines.