Leave Iran Immediately: U.S. Issues Key Advisory to Its Citizens

Amid rapidly evolving conditions and rising security concerns in Iran, the U.S. government has issued a critical advisory to its citizens, urging those in the country to leave immediately and move to safer locations. The U.S. State Department noted that nationwide protests , road closures, and disruptions to public transportation, combined with government restrictions on mobile, landline, and internet networks , have effectively crippled communication systems .

The advisory warned that flight services could be cancelled at any time and advised citizens not to rely solely on air travel, recommending alternative routes to exit the country. Those unable to leave are advised to stock essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine, remain in secure locations , avoid protest areas, and stay alert due to heightened government surveillance.

For road travel, U.S. citizens are advised to use routes to neighbouring countries. Currently, the Armenia border (Agarak/Norduz) is open, allowing U.S. passport holders to stay visa-free for up to 180 days. Turkish border crossings (Gurbulak, Kapikoy, Esendere) are also open, offering visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Travelers are urged to continuously monitor security conditions along these routes.

Some countries have stricter travel regulations. Although Turkmenistan’s borders are open, prior special permission from the government is mandatory. Azerbaijan’s borders are closed to regular travelers, allowing entry only in emergencies with special authorization. The U.S. strongly cautioned against attempting to enter Afghanistan, Iraq, or Pakistan.

Special caution is advised for dual U.S.-Iranian citizens , as Iran does not recognize dual nationality and may treat them solely as Iranian citizens, with the risk of arrest. Any perceived connection to the U.S. could lead to detention; therefore, maintaining a low profile is recommended.

As the U.S. has no direct diplomatic relations with Iran, its interests in Tehran are represented by the Swiss Embassy . Citizens requiring urgent assistance are advised to contact the Swiss Embassy in Tehran at +98-21-22-54-21-78 or the U.S. diplomatic missions in Ankara, Yerevan, or Baku via email. They are also encouraged to enroll in the STEP program to receive timely updates and alerts.