India’s ‘Leave Iran’ Warning for Nationals Amid Fears of Military Escalation

The next round of negotiations between Iran and the United States over a possible nuclear deal will be held on Thursday, February 26, in Geneva, according to Oman’s foreign minister Badr Al Busaidi. Oman has previously acted as a mediator between Tehran and Washington.

The talks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions and concerns about potential military escalation in the region. Against this backdrop, India has issued a fresh advisory urging its nationals in Iran to consider leaving the country using available transport options, including commercial flights.

US President Donald Trump recently warned Iran to agree to a nuclear deal within a 10–15 day timeframe, cautioning that failure to do so would be “unfortunate” for the country.

Meanwhile, fresh anti-government demonstrations have been reported at several Iranian universities, particularly in Tehran and Mashhad. According to local reports, protests continued for a second consecutive day on Sunday.

Key Developments

Geneva talks confirmed – Negotiators from Tehran and Washington are scheduled to resume discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme this week in Geneva, Oman’s foreign minister said.

US military presence grows – AFP reported that the United States has expanded its naval deployment in the Middle East, with 13 warships currently stationed in the region. These include the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, nine destroyers, and three frigates.

Escalating tensions – Frictions between Washington and Tehran intensified earlier this year after the US administration criticized Iran’s handling of domestic unrest. Casualty figures from Iran’s protest crackdowns remain disputed, with Iranian authorities and independent monitoring groups offering sharply differing estimates.

Iran’s response warnings – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed hope for a diplomatic breakthrough but warned that Iran would retaliate if attacked. President Masoud Pezeshkian also reiterated that Tehran would resist external pressure during the negotiations.

The upcoming Geneva meeting is being closely watched as both sides seek to manage tensions while exploring the possibility of renewed diplomatic engagement.