US Urges Citizens to Leave Iran Without Government Help Amid Protests

The United States has issued an urgent advisory asking its citizens to leave Iran immediately as nationwide protests intensify and security conditions continue to deteriorate. The warning comes amid escalating unrest that has already claimed thousands of lives and prompted a sweeping crackdown by Iranian authorities.

In a strongly worded notice released by the US virtual embassy in Tehran, American citizens were advised to prepare exit plans that do not rely on US government assistance. Washington underlined that it currently has no diplomatic or consular presence inside Iran, severely limiting its ability to provide emergency support to nationals in distress.

The advisory specifically urged US citizens to consider leaving Iran by land routes through Turkiye or Armenia, if it is safe to do so. At the same time, Americans were cautioned against travelling to nearby high-risk areas, including Afghanistan, Iraq and the Pakistan-Iran border region.

For those unable to depart immediately, US authorities recommended sheltering in place and seeking secure locations within residences or other safe buildings. The advisory also called on citizens to avoid demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and remain constantly alert to rapidly changing conditions. Americans were advised to closely monitor local news, keep communication devices charged, and identify alternative means of communication in case of further internet or phone shutdowns.

The warning carried particularly grave implications for US-Iranian dual nationals. Iran does not recognise dual citizenship and treats individuals with dual nationality solely as Iranian citizens. According to the advisory, this significantly heightens the risk of questioning, arrest, or prolonged detention.

The notice warned that merely possessing a US passport or showing links to the United States could be sufficient grounds for detention by Iranian authorities. US officials stressed that dual nationals face some of the highest risks during periods of political unrest and heightened security enforcement.

Iranian authorities, meanwhile, have accused the United States and other foreign powers of fuelling the protests. Tehran has repeatedly alleged that Washington and Israel are interfering in Iran’s internal affairs, claiming that external statements and actions have encouraged instability and violence on the streets.

The advisory follows public remarks by Donald Trump, who has openly expressed support for the protesters. Trump has urged Iranians to continue demonstrating and taking control of state institutions, asserting that international backing was forthcoming, though without providing specific details.

As protests that began over Iran’s worsening economic conditions have evolved into direct opposition to the ruling system, the reported death toll has crossed 2,400, marking one of the deadliest episodes of unrest in the country since the 1979 revolution. Iranian state media has acknowledged heavy casualties, referring to those killed as “martyrs,” while continuing to blame unrest on hostile foreign forces and armed groups.

With communications repeatedly disrupted, borders under strain, and internal security tightened, the US advisory reflects growing concern over the safety of foreign nationals inside Iran. American officials have reiterated that citizens should not expect evacuation assistance and must take independent measures to protect themselves.

As tensions remain high and the situation on the ground continues to evolve, the warning underscores the deepening crisis in Iran and the increasingly volatile regional environment surrounding the country.