New Delhi, Jan. 8 -- As tension in the Middle East deepens, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday issued a travel advisory for Iraq, asking Indians to avoid non-essential travel to the region.

Moreover, Indian nationals who are residing in Iraq are advised to be alert and avoid travelling within Iraq.

"Travel Advisory for Iraq In view of the prevailing situation in Iraq, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Iraq until further notification. Indian nationals residing in Iraq are advised to be alert and may avoid travel within Iraq," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet.

"Our Embassy in Baghdad and Consulate in Erbil will continue to function normally to provid...