India asks nationals to ‘leave Iran’ amid escalating US-Iran tensions | India News

Amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States, the State Department on Monday issued a new advisory asking its citizens in Iran to ‘leave Iran’ using all available means of transportation, including commercial flights.

Indian Embassy in Iran tweeted: “In continuation of the advisory issued by the Government of India on January 5, 2026, and in view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian citizens (students, pilgrims, businessmen and tourists) currently in Iran are advised to do the following: pic.twitter.com/RKIoUf7HEO

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2026

The directive reflects growing fears of military conflict in the Middle East. The meeting came just days before the third round of US-Iran indirect nuclear talks scheduled for February 26 in Geneva. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi confirmed the date, based on previous sessions in Oman and Geneva that proved inconclusive. US President Donald Trump intensified the pressure by giving a 10-15 day ultimatum for the nuclear agreement and warned that failure to comply with the agreement could lead to “unfortunate” consequences.

Reportedly, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi confirmed that the next round of US-Iran indirect talks on the nuclear deal will be held in Geneva on February 26, building on previous mediation efforts. This will be the third round of negotiation talks after failure to reach a clear agreement in Oman and Geneva.

The US is seeking ways to impose zero enrichment, missile limitations, and restrictions on proxies; As a signatory of the NPT, Iran demands the full removal of sanctions while preserving its enrichment rights.

Early on February 17 in Geneva, US and Iranian officials cautiously agreed on “guiding principles” for nuclear talks, a fragile step forward against gathering geopolitical storm clouds.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the session as “constructive” and noted that a broad agreement was reached. “We have managed to reach broad agreement… drafts will be shared and a date for the third round will be set,” he said, signaling plans for detailed proposals ahead of a follow-up on February 26.

Hours later, US Vice President J.D. Vance cooled the excitement by declaring Iran’s behavior inadequate. Highlighting unresolved gaps in key demands such as zero uranium enrichment, Vance said, “The President has set some red lines that the Iranians are not yet willing to accept.” he said.

Meanwhile, according to AFP reports, the USA has deployed many warships, nine destroyers and three frigates in the Middle East, including the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald Ford aircraft carriers.

Meanwhile, Iran continues its bold denials, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressing hope for diplomacy but vowing to retaliate for any US attack. President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed this, stating that Iran will not bow to global pressure during the negotiations.

Recently, amid economic difficulties, anti-regime protests targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have also intensified in Tehran and Mashhad universities.

India’s new advice underscores the caution of New Delhi, which prioritizes the security of its citizens, underlining developments in and around Iran and the Middle East, along with an increased military presence in the Gulf.