US Issues Urgent Advisory for Citizens to Leave Iran Immediately
The United States government issued a critical advisory on Monday. It strongly urged American citizens to leave Iran right away. Massive unrest continues to sweep across the Islamic Republic. The advisory warns that protests against the Khamenei regime are escalating rapidly. These demonstrations could turn violent at any moment.
Warnings of Arrests, Injuries, and Severe Disruptions
Protests across Iran may turn violent as Iranian authorities increase security measures. The US embassy alert states this clearly. Increased security leads to road closures and public transportation disruptions. Internet blockages are also ongoing throughout the country.
The Iranian government has restricted access to mobile networks. Landline and national internet networks face similar restrictions. These actions create severe disruptions to daily life for residents and visitors alike.
Travel Disruptions and Departure Advice
Several airlines have limited or cancelled flights to and from Iran. Many carriers suspended service until Friday, January 16. The advisory notes these travel disruptions explicitly.
The embassy urges immediate caution for US citizens. It advises people to consider leaving Iran by land through Armenia and Turkey. Citizens should expect continued internet outages. Planning alternative means of communication becomes essential.
Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing that does not rely on US government help. The advisory emphasizes this point repeatedly.
Safety Instructions for Those Unable to Leave
For individuals unable to leave Iran immediately, the embassy provides specific guidance. Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Keep a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items ready.
Avoid demonstrations at all costs. Keep a low profile and stay aware of your surroundings. Follow local media updates closely. Remain flexible with travel plans as the situation evolves.
Special Risks for Dual Citizens
The advisory highlights serious risks for US nationals, especially dual citizens. US-Iranian dual nationals must exit Iran using Iranian passports. The Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality. It treats US-Iranian dual nationals solely as Iranian citizens.
US nationals face significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran. Simply showing a US passport can prompt Iranian authorities to detain someone. Demonstrating connections to the United States carries similar dangers.
Iran's Supreme Leader Issues Counter-Warning
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a warning to America. He wrote on social media platform X that Iran's great nation showcased its resolve and identity to its enemies. This served as a warning to US politicians. He urged them to cease their deceptions and not rely on treacherous mercenaries.
Background of the Unrest
The advisory comes amid reports of large demonstrations across several provinces. These include Azerbaijan province and the central city of Arak. Iran's state-run Press TV showed crowds waving flags and chanting slogans in support of Iran.
Protests and counter-protests follow days of unrest linked to rising inflation. Economic hardship and public anger over governance fuel the demonstrations. At least 646 people have died in the violence. More than 10,000 individuals faced arrest and imprisonment.
US President Trump Takes Hard Stance
US President Donald Trump adopted a hard stance against the Khamenei-led regime. His administration targets countries doing business with Iran. Trump stepped up pressure by announcing a 25 percent tariff with immediate effect.
The tariffs apply immediately to any country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran. They must pay a 25 percent tariff on all business conducted with the United States. Trump announced this policy through a social media post.
