The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a fresh advisory for all Indian nationals living in or visiting Israel. The embassy has asked them to stay alert at all times and strictly follow safety instructions given by Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command.
Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had issued a strong advisory asking Indian citizens to avoid travelling to Iran until further notice. Those already in the country were asked to leave immediately, using available commercial flights. This warning follows an earlier advisory issued on January 5, as concerns grew over the worsening security situation in Iran.
This advisory comes at a time when the situation in the region remains tense. Protests in Iran have continued to intensify, with reports of violent clashes between protesters and security forces. According to the Times of Israel, the estimated death toll from these protests ranges from under 3,000 to more than 12,000.
Indian Embassy asks nationals in Israel to stay alert
The Indian Embassy in Israel shared its advisory on Thursday through social media and its official website. In its message, the mission asked Indians living in Israel to be extra careful. “In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indian nationals currently in Israel are advised to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to the safety guidelines and protocols issued by the Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command,” the embassy said.
The advisory also urged Indians to put off any travel plans unless they are absolutely essential. “Indian nationals are also advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Israel,” it added.
For emergencies, the embassy has shared a 24-hour helpline. Indian nationals can call +972-54-7520711 or +972-54-3278392. They can also reach out by email at cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in
Embassy keeping track of Indian nationals
Over the past few years, the Indian Embassy has been regularly updating its records of Indian nationals in Israel. It has also been encouraging people to register with the mission so they can be contacted quickly if needed.
Over the past few years, the Indian Embassy has been regularly updating its records of Indian nationals in Israel. It has also been encouraging people to register with the mission so they can be contacted quickly if needed.
The US and UK issue similar warnings
The concern is not limited to India alone. Earlier on Wednesday, the US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a new security alert for American citizens. It asked them to be mindful of “ongoing regional tensions” and to rethink travel plans in case there are sudden disruptions.
The advisory said Americans should “review any travel plans in case of disruptions, and make appropriate decisions for themselves and their families.
The UK government has also sounded a warning. The British Foreign Office issued a fresh travel advisory, asking its citizens to avoid going to Israel unless the travel is essential. “There is a heightened risk of regional tension. Escalation could lead to travel disruption and other unanticipated impacts,” the UK advisory said.
EAM Jaishankar speaks to Iranian Foreign Minister
On Wednesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi over the phone. The two leaders discussed the fast-changing situation in and around Iran.
“Received a call from Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. We discussed the evolving situation in and around Iran,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has also repeated the advice, asking Indian nationals in Iran to leave the country as soon as possible. This includes students, pilgrims, businesspersons and tourists.
“In continuation of the advisory issued by the Government of India on January 5, 2025, and in view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals who are currently in Iran are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” the embassy said.