NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) on Monday issued a travel advisory for Iran urging its nationals to avoid non-essential travel as unrest continues to spread across the country following days of protests.In a statement, the MEA urged nationals in Iran to “avoid non-essential travel”.”In view of recent developments, Indian nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until further notice. Indian citizens and PIOs currently in Iran should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, and closely monitor news as well as the website and social media handles of the Embassy of India in Tehran,” the statement read. The protests began on December 28 in Tehran, when shopkeepers went on strike over rising prices and economic stagnation. Since then, demonstrations have spread rapidly, evolving from economic grievances into broader political demands.According to an AFP tally based on official statements and local media reports, demonstrations have taken place in 25 of Iran’s 31 provinces, affecting at least 45 cities, mostly small and medium-sized urban centres in the western parts of the country. Officials say at least 12 people have been killed since December 30 in localised clashes.