US To Citizens; ‘Leave Iran Now’

The United States Embassy has issued an urgent security advisory instructing all U.S. citizens in Iran to leave the country immediately, citing deteriorating security conditions, widespread disruptions, and increasing restrictions imposed by Iranian authorities. In the advisory, which applies nationwide, the embassy warned that heightened security measures have led to road closures, disruptions to public transportation, and persistent internet blockages across Iran.

It said the Iranian government continues to restrict access to mobile networks, landlines, and the national internet, making communication increasingly difficult. The embassy also noted that airlines are limiting or canceling flights to and from Iran, raising concerns that commercial travel options could become even more constrained with little or no notice.

“U.S. citizens should expect continued internet outages, plan alternative means of communication, and, if safe to do so, consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Türkiye,” the advisory stated. It added bluntly, “Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help.”

According to the advisory, flight cancellations and disruptions remain possible at any time, and travelers were urged to check directly with airlines for updates. For those unable to leave immediately, the embassy advised finding a secure location, stocking up on food, water, medications, and other essential supplies, and avoiding public gatherings or demonstrations. U.S. citizens were also urged to keep a low profile, stay alert to their surroundings, monitor local media for breaking developments, and be ready to change plans quickly.

The advisory further encouraged maintaining communication with family and friends and keeping mobile devices charged. As part of its guidance, the embassy advised Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest security updates related to Iran.

The warning comes against the backdrop of long-standing tensions between the United States and Iran, compounded in recent years by regional instability, sanctions, and periodic internal unrest within Iran. The U.S. has no diplomatic relations with Tehran, and the Swiss government represents U.S. interests in the country, limiting Washington’s ability to provide direct consular assistance during emergencies. Previous U.S. advisories have consistently classified travel to Iran as extremely high risk, citing arbitrary detention of foreign nationals, restrictions on freedoms, and limited access to consular support.

The latest alert underscores growing concerns that the security and communications environment in Iran could further deteriorate, leaving foreign nationals, particularly U.S. citizens, increasingly vulnerable.