KEY POINTS
- Canberra issues travel advisory urging Australians in Iran to depart.
- Advisory cites nationwide protests and unpredictable security conditions.
- Indian government also advises its citizens to avoid non‑essential travel to Iran.
ISLAMABAD: The Australian government has advised its citizens present in Iran to leave the country “as soon as possible”, citing ongoing nationwide protests and a volatile security environment, according to an official travel advisory updated on Wednesday, Khaleej Times reported.
“If you’re in Iran, you should leave as soon as possible,” the updated advisory said, warning that “ongoing violent nationwide protests” could escalate without notice and describing the security situation as volatile.
The advisory urged Australians to avoid large public gatherings and demonstrations and to follow the guidance of local authorities.
The advisory also noted that the Australian Embassy’s operations in Tehran have been suspended and that access to consular services on the ground may be limited.
Australians remaining in Iran were advised to take personal responsibility for their own safety.
Meanwhile, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has advised Indian nationals against non‑essential travel to Iran until further notice amid recent developments and has urged those already in the country to exercise due caution and avoid areas of protests or demonstrations.
Iran has been experiencing protests in various cities during recent weeks. Reports indicate incidents of violence, including casualties among both civilians and law enforcement personnel, amid broader economic pressures and currency fluctuations, contributing to heightened public activity.
Australia’s updated guidance forms part of routine travel advisories issued by governments to inform their citizens of security conditions abroad.
