Several Indian nationals returned to New Delhi on Friday, January 17, 2026, escaping a "dangerous" situation marked by widespread anti-government protests and internet blackouts across Iran. Families greeted their loved ones with emotional reunions at Indira Gandhi International Airport after days of anxiety and communication struggles.[pragativadi+5]
Iranians Face Dangerous Unrest
Protests erupted across Iran on December 28, 2025, sparked by economic hardship and a sharp fall in the Iranian rial.These demonstrations quickly escalated into anti-government movements, leading to a severe crackdown by authorities.Reports indicate thousands of protesters have died nationwide.The Iranian government imposed a near-total internet blackout, making communication extremely difficult for foreign nationals.[seaandjob+20]
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Tehran closely monitored the deteriorating security.India issued its first travel advisory on January 5, 2026, urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran.A subsequent advisory on January 14, 2026, strongly recommended that all Indian nationals in Iran, including students, pilgrims, and businesspersons, leave the country using available commercial flights.An estimated 10,000 Indians reside in Iran.[seaandjob+14]
Returnees Recount Difficult Conditions
Those who returned described a tense and uncertain environment in Iran. One Indian national told news agency ANI that conditions were "bad" and thanked the Indian government for its support."The conditions were very difficult," another returnee said. "The Government of India cooperated a lot, and the embassy guided us on how to leave as soon as possible."[pragativadi+2]
The internet shutdown created significant distress. "The internet shutdown meant we could not contact our families or even reach the embassy, which was very worrying," one individual explained.Another returnee, Mohammad Dilshad from Hyderabad, said protesters would suddenly rush toward their car, shouting, causing panic.He noted that communication slowly returned, but the initial blackout caused immense worry.[pragativadi+6]
A young medical student from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences clarified that she and others returned on commercial flights and not through a specific government evacuation.She mentioned that while the situation in her city seemed "fine," the lack of internet made it impossible to know what was happening elsewhere.Some returnees, like Ali Naqui, part of a group of 12 to 13 travelers, reported no specific problems during their stay.[telegraphindia+7]
Emotional Reunions in Delhi
Anxious families waited for hours at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport.Relatives expressed immense relief as their loved ones emerged from the arrival gates.Many brought flowers, eager to embrace family members they had struggled to contact for days.[ptinews+10]
A relative waiting for his aunt, who was on a pilgrimage, expressed confidence in the Indian government's efforts. "We were confident that the Modi government would help. We are very happy our family member is coming back safely," he said.Another man, awaiting his sister-in-law, described a "war-like situation" and days without communication.[seaandjob+1]
Abbas Qazmi, whose mother and aunt returned, spoke of the global concern and personal anxiety during the internet shutdown.He felt reassured when communication resumed and confirmed they had registered with the embassy after the advisory.The Indian Embassy in Tehran provided emergency helpline numbers and email for assistance, urging nationals to register.Families in India could also register on behalf of their relatives due to internet disruptions.[telegraphindia+6]
Government Continues Monitoring
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed it continues to monitor the situation closely.It remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad.The government also advised Indians to avoid non-essential travel to Iran until further notice.[seaandjob+10]
