Leave Iran now: The United States Virtual Embassy in Iran on Monday (local time) issued a strong advisory urging American citizens to “Leave Iran now.” It warned that protests across the country are escalating and could turn violent, potentially leading to arrests, injuries, and major disruptions to daily life.
Leave Iran now: Escalating Protests and Heightened Security
In its advisory, the embassy cautioned that demonstrations across Iran may intensify amid increased security measures by Iranian authorities. “Protests across Iran are escalating and may turn violent, resulting in arrests and injuries. Increased security measures, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and internet blockages are ongoing,” the alert said.
The advisory noted that the Iranian government has restricted access to communication networks. “The Government of Iran has restricted access to mobile, landline, and national internet networks,” it added.
US-Iran Conflict: Flight Cancellations and Travel Disruptions
The embassy also flagged serious travel challenges, stating that several airlines have limited or cancelled flights to and from Iran. “Airlines continue to limit or cancel flights to and from Iran, with several suspending service until Friday, January 16,” the advisory said.
Urging Americans to take immediate action, the embassy advised citizens to consider leaving Iran by land routes. “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 Turkiye,” the alert added.
“Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help,” it stressed.
For US citizens who cannot exit the country, the advisory recommended finding safe shelter and preparing essential supplies. “If you cannot leave, find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items,” it said. The embassy also advised avoiding demonstrations, maintaining a low profile, and closely monitoring local media for updates.
High Risk for US and Dual Nationals
The advisory reiterated that US nationals face serious risks in Iran, particularly those holding dual citizenship. “U.S.-Iranian dual nationals must exit Iran on Iranian passports. The Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality and will treat U.S.-Iranian dual nationals solely as Iranian citizens,” it warned.
“U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran,” the advisory added, noting that merely showing a US passport or links to the United States could lead to detention.
Widespread Demonstrations and Rising Casualties
The advisory comes amid reports of large demonstrations across several provinces, including Azerbaijan province and the central city of Arak. According to Press TV, crowds were seen waving flags and chanting slogans in support of Iran.
The protests and counter-demonstrations follow days of unrest driven by soaring inflation, economic hardship, and public anger over governance.
According to the Human Rights News Agency, at least 544 people have been killed, while more than 10,681 individuals have been arrested and transferred to prisons.
White House: “All Options on the Table”
Earlier, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said US President Donald Trump continues to keep “all options on the table” in dealing with Iran, including military action, while emphasising diplomacy as the preferred first step.
Responding to a question on whether the unrest could end without military intervention, Leavitt said, “I think one thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table, and airstrikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the Commander in Chief. Diplomacy is always the first option for the president.”
