U.S. Government Urges Its Citizens to Leave Iran Immediately

The U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran on Monday issued a security alert urging U.S. citizens to leave Iran without delay due to a rapidly deteriorating situation across the country.

In its advisory, the embassy warned that massive nationwide unrest, which began in late December, has intensified in recent days-bringing escalating demonstrations, heightened security measures, road closures, widespread travel disruptions and severe restrictions on communications including internet outages.

The alert said Americans in Iran face significant risks, including the possibility of arbitrary arrest or detention. It specifically noted that showing a U.S. passport or demonstrating ties to the United States may increase the likelihood of questioning or detention by Iranian authorities.

The embassy advised U.S. citizens to plan their departure without relying on government assistance and suggested that, if safe to do so, they consider exiting Iran by land through neighbouring countries such as Armenia or Türkiye, as airline services have been limited or suspended in many areas.

For those unable to leave immediately, the advisory recommends finding a secure location, avoiding all demonstrations, maintaining a low profile, and ensuring adequate supplies of essentials like food, water and medications.

The warning comes amid one of the most significant internal crises in Iran in recent years, with protests spreading across the country and a heavy security response by Iranian authorities.

This alert reflects growing international concern about conditions inside Iran and underscores that travel to the country remains highly risky for foreign nationals.