US State Department urges Americans to leave Iran immediately

The warning was issued on Monday, as Iran entered the third week of anti-government protests, which, according to human rights organizations and media reports, have left hundreds dead and thousands arrested.

The embassy statement noted that protests across Iran are intensifying and could escalate, putting the population at risk of arrests and injuries.

Heightened security measures continue in Iran, including road closures, disruptions to public transport, and internet blackouts. The Iranian government has restricted access to mobile, landline, and national internet networks.

Airlines are also continuing to limit or cancel flights to and from Iran, with several carriers suspending flights until Friday, January 16.

The US embassy advised: “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 embassy outlined several actions for US citizens in Iran:

• Leave Iran immediately and develop an exit plan.
• If leaving is not possible, find a safe location inside your home or another secure building.
• Stock up on food, water, medicine, and other necessities.
• Avoid demonstrations, stay low-profile, and remain aware of your surroundings.
• Follow local media to stay informed and adjust plans as needed.
• Keep your phone charged and maintain contact with family and friends.
• Register with the STEP program to receive the latest security updates in Iran.

The virtual US embassy also issued guidance for dual US-Iranian citizens: they must leave Iran using their Iranian passports.

“The Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality and will treat U.S.-Iranian dual nationals solely as Iranian citizens. U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran. Showing a U.S. passport or demonstrating connections to the United States can be reason enough for Iranian authorities to detain someone,” the advisory states.

The embassy emphasized that the US government cannot guarantee the safety of its citizens if they choose to leave the country. Citizens should only depart if they consider it safe to do so.

Protests in Iran and Trump’s plans

The first protests in Iran began on December 28, triggered by a sharp drop in the national currency, which severely affected businesses. Merchants from Tehran’s central market were among the first to take to the streets.

The demonstrations later escalated into violent clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in casualties. Following these reports, US President Donald Trump said that Tehran was starting to cross his red line.

According to Axios, Trump is leaning toward striking Iran to punish the regime for killing protesters. However, no final decision has been made, and other options are being considered.

The outlet also reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi communicated with US special envoy Steve Witkoff regarding the protests and potential diplomatic talks amid Trump’s threats of military intervention.