New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has issued an urgent and unequivocal advisory, directing all Indian nationals residing in or visiting Tehran to leave the Iranian capital "immediately." The critical directive comes as regional tensions between Iran and Israel reach a perilous new high, leading to the closure of Iranian airspace and severely complicating conventional travel routes.

The advisory underscores the rapidly deteriorating security landscape in the Middle East, particularly following recent ballistic missile exchanges between Iran and Israel. With the skies over Iran now effectively shut to commercial flights, the MEA's warning highlights the imminent risks faced by Indian citizens caught in the volatile geopolitical crossfire.

Complicating the evacuation efforts, the closure of Iranian airspace means that air travel, the most common mode of international transit, is no longer a viable option for immediate departure. Recognizing this severe impediment, Iranian authorities have reportedly granted permission for stranded individuals, including Indian nationals, to exit the country via land routes. This alternative, while potentially arduous, offers a crucial lifeline for those seeking to comply with the urgent advisory.

The advisory reflects New Delhi's grave concerns over the safety of its diaspora amidst the intensifying conflict. As a significant number of Indian expatriates reside and work in Iran, particularly in Tehran, the sudden order necessitates rapid logistical planning and immediate action from those affected.

The Indian government's proactive stance is a clear indicator of the perceived severity of the threat, advising its citizens to prioritize their safety and depart before the situation escalates further or travel options become even more restricted. This urgent call to action highlights the growing humanitarian implications of the escalating regional hostilities.