‘Leave Iran now’: US Virtual Embassy issues urgent advisory amid escalating protests

The US Virtual Embassy in Iran has issued an urgent advisory asking American citizens to leave the country immediately, warning that protests across Iran are intensifying and could turn violent.

US Embassy Issues Advisory 

In the advisory dated January 13, the Virtual Embassy said demonstrations nationwide are escalating, with the risk of arrests and injuries rising sharply. It warned of increased security measures, widespread road closures, disruptions to public transport and ongoing internet blockages imposed by Iranian authorities.

The advisory noted that the Iranian government has restricted access to mobile, landline and national internet networks, severely affecting communications. “US 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.

The US Virtual Embassy functions as Washington’s official diplomatic outreach platform for Iran in the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The US and Iran severed ties in 1980 following the Islamic Revolution and the hostage crisis at the US Embassy in Tehran. Since then, the Virtual Embassy has served as the primary channel to issue advisories, provide consular information and communicate directly with US citizens and the Iranian public.

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The warning comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that any country doing business with Iran would face a 25% tariff, adding economic pressure alongside diplomatic strain at a time when the country is facing domestic unrest and economic challenges.

Flights Curtailed Amidst Chaos

The advisory also warned that US-Iranian dual nationals face particular risks, as Iran does not recognise dual nationality and treats such individuals solely as Iranian citizens. American nationals, it said, face a significant risk of questioning, arrest or detention, especially if found carrying US passports or documents indicating links to the US.

In addition to that, several airlines have curtailed or cancelled flights to and from Iran, with some suspending services until January 16, limiting exit options for foreign nationals.

The advisory said departures should not rely on US government assistance. The advisory said the Armenian land border at Agarak Norduz remains open, with US passport holders eligible to enter Armenia visa-free for up to 180 days. It added that Turkish land border crossings, including Gürbulak Bazargan, Kapıköy Razi and Esendere Serow, remain open, while advising US citizens using US passports to contact US diplomatic missions in advance.

The advisory cautioned that while Turkmenistan’s land borders are open, special authorisation is required before approaching the border, and warned that entry into Azerbaijan from Iran has previously been restricted for US citizens during periods of heightened tension.

US citizens were advised not to attempt departure via Afghanistan, Iraq or the Pakistan-Iran border region.

In the absence of diplomatic or consular relations with Iran, the Swiss government, through its embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for US interests in the country.

The US government said it cannot guarantee the safety of citizens who choose to remain in or depart Iran and advised Americans to leave only if they believe it is safe to do so.

Those unable to exit were urged to shelter in secure locations, maintain essential supplies, avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile and closely monitor local developments.