The Government of India on Saturday issued a fresh advisory for Indian nationals currently residing in or travelling to Iran, urging them to exercise utmost caution in view of the evolving security situation in the region.

This comes after Israel launched a "pre-emptive" airstrike against Iran today, following months of heightening regional tensions. The operation, confirmed by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, targeted military infrastructure in the Iranian capital to neutralise what Israel described as an "imminent threat".

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised Indians to remain vigilant at all times and strictly adhere to local safety guidelines. Citizens have been asked to avoid unnecessary movement, stay away from sensitive areas and large gatherings, and closely monitor updates issued by Indian authorities.

The advisory also urged Indian nationals to remain in close proximity to their residences and maintain regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. They have been advised to keep important travel and identification documents readily accessible in case of emergency.

The government said it is closely monitoring developments and will issue further updates as required. The move underscores India’s focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens amid heightened tensions in the region.

Several blasts reported:

Several explosions were reported across multiple cities in Iran on Saturday, according to the semi-official Fars news agency, raising concerns over the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the country.

The blasts were initially reported in the capital, Tehran, before additional detonations were heard in other regions. Fresh explosions were reported from the central city of Isfahan, the holy city of Qom, Karaj near Tehran, and Kermanshah in western Iran.

The extent of the damage and possible casualties was not immediately clear.

Iran closes airspace until further notice: Civil Aviation

In a significant development, Iran’s civil aviation authority announced the closure of the country’s airspace until further notice. “The airspace of the entire country is closed until further notice,” a spokesperson for Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency.

The sweeping shutdown of air traffic signals heightened security concerns as authorities assess the situation. Further details are awaited.