Iranian foreign minister Araghchi dials Jaishankar amid widespread protests in Tehran

By Admin

15 Jan, 2026

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi held a telephonic conversation with India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday, amid escalating protests in Tehran and growing fears of possible US military intervention in Iran. The call comes at a time of heightened regional tension and increasing international scrutiny of Iran’s internal situation.

Call Explains Cancelled New Delhi Visit

According to people familiar with the matter, the phone call provided Araghchi an opportunity to explain his decision to call off a planned visit to New Delhi that was scheduled to begin on January 15. The visit was postponed against the backdrop of widespread protests and uncertainty within Iran, coupled with concerns over regional stability.

Confirming the conversation, Jaishankar posted on social media, saying, “Received a call from Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. We discussed the evolving situation in and around Iran.” However, he did not share further details of the discussion.

Internet Blackout in Iran

There was no official readout from the Iranian side following the call. Most Iranian government websites were inaccessible due to an ongoing internet blackout, reportedly imposed amid the protests and the government’s crackdown. The blackout has made it difficult to independently verify developments within the country.

India Advises Nationals to Leave Iran

The conversation between the two foreign ministers took place just hours after India advised its citizens to leave Iran and cautioned against non-essential travel to the country. An estimated 10,000 Indians are currently in Iran, including a significant number of students, making the situation a matter of serious concern for New Delhi.

Reports indicate that more than 2,000 people may have been killed during the Iranian authorities’ crackdown on protests, described as among the worst in the country’s history. The unrest has drawn sharp international reactions, particularly from the United States.

US Pressure and Sanctions Loom Large

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of “very strong action” if Iranian security forces continue killing protesters or if detained demonstrators are executed. He has also threatened military intervention, further raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

India has been under increased pressure from the US regarding its ties with Iran, especially after Trump announced a 25% tariff on countries trading with Tehran. During Trump’s first term, US sanctions forced India in 2019 to halt oil imports from Iran, which had been among India’s top three energy suppliers at the time.

Strategic Stakes for India

Beyond immediate security concerns, any escalation involving Iran carries significant strategic implications for India. Iran plays a crucial role in India’s energy security and regional connectivity plans. Projects such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor are central to India’s efforts to strengthen trade and transit links with Afghanistan, Central Asia and Russia.

As protests continue and geopolitical tensions rise, India is closely monitoring developments, balancing concerns over the safety of its nationals, regional stability, and its long-term strategic interests tied to Iran.