Tehran [Iran], February 6 (HBTV): The virtual US Embassy in Iran on Friday issued a warning urging US citizens to leave the country immediately amid rising tensions.
In an advisory, the embassy said increased security measures, road closures, disruptions to public transportation and internet blockages were ongoing. It said the Iranian government continued to restrict access to mobile, landline and national internet networks, while airlines were limiting or cancelling flights to and from Iran.
The advisory said US citizens should expect continued internet outages, plan alternative means of communication and, if safe to do so, consider departing Iran by land via Armenia or Turkiye.
‘Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help. Flight cancellations and disruptions are possible with little warning. Check directly with your airlines for updates. 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,’ the statement said.
It further advised US nationals to avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile and remain alert to their surroundings. ‘Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Keep your phone charged and maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest updates on security in Iran,’ it added.
The advisory also warned US-Iranian dual nationals that they must exit Iran on Iranian passports, noting that Iran does not recognise dual nationality and treats such individuals solely as Iranian citizens. It cautioned that US nationals face a significant risk of questioning, arrest and detention in Iran, and that displaying a US passport or demonstrating links to the United States could be sufficient grounds for detention. It advised US citizens without a valid US passport to apply for one at the nearest US embassy or consulate after leaving Iran.
‘The U.S. government cannot guarantee your safety if you choose to depart using the following options. You should leave only if you believe it is safe to do so,’ the advisory said.
As of February 5, the Armenian land border at Agarak–Norduz was open. US citizens entering Armenia from Iran require a valid US passport and may stay for up to 180 days without a visa. US dual nationals entering Armenia on an American, Iranian or Armenian passport do not require prior approval.
Land border crossings between Iran and Turkiye — Gurbulak–Bazargan, Kapikoy–Razi and Esendere–Serow — were also open. US citizens entering Turkiye from Iran need a valid US passport and may stay for up to 90 days visa-free. Dual nationals travelling on American, Iranian or Turkish passports do not require advance approval.
Turkmenistan’s land borders are open, but US citizens need special authorisation from the Turkmenistan government before approaching the border, with approval facilitated by the US Embassy in Ashgabat. Azerbaijan’s land borders remain closed to routine traffic, and US citizens with an urgent need to depart Iran were advised to consider other options first, as entry into Azerbaijan requires prior approval and may involve extended wait times.
The advisory said US citizens should not travel to Afghanistan, Iraq or the Pakistan–Iran border area.
The US government has no diplomatic or consular relations with Iran, and the Swiss government, through its embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for US interests in the country.
(ANI)