Afghanistan, Jan. 15 -- India and Italy have urged their citizens in Iran to leave immediately as fears of a possible US attack and widespread protests heighten security risks across the country.

India and Italy have urged their citizens to leave Iran as soon as possible, citing growing security concerns amid rising regional tensions.

Italy's foreign ministry said on Thursday it had advised Italian nationals residing in Iran to depart without delay, warning that the situation could deteriorate rapidly.

The ministry said more than 600 Italian citizens are currently in Iran, most of them based in the capital, Tehran.

Iran has experienced months of internal unrest marked by protests, crackdowns and heightened political uncertainty, raising...