The U.S. virtual embassy urged citizens to consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Turkey, but said it cannot guarantee their safety.
The U.S. virtual embassy in Iran issued a security alert on Feb. 6, urging American citizens to leave the country and prepare an exit plan that does not rely on U.S. government help amid nationwide protests there.
The notice was issued just hours before U.S. and Iranian officials were scheduled to hold talks in Oman, as concerns mount over a possible military confrontation between the two countries.
U.S. citizens were advised to plan a backup communication channel as internet restrictions are expected to persist and consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Turkey, the embassy said in the alert.
“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,” it said.
The embassy warned that increased security measures by the Iranian regime, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and internet blockages are still ongoing across Iran.
The Iranian regime has restricted access to internet networks and communications as part of its ongoing clampdown on protesters, which has led to thousands of deaths, according to U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).
The embassy urged U.S. citizens seeking to leave Iran to check directly with their airlines for updates, noting that flights have been disrupted due to the worsening security situation there.
“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 embassy said.
U.S.-Iranian nationals must use Iranian passports when departing Iran, it said, warning that presenting a U.S. passport or demonstrating ties to the United States “can be reason enough for Iranian authorities to detain someone.”
Dual nationality is not recognized in Iran, and U.S.-Iranian nationals will be treated as Iranian citizens by the regime, according to the advisory.
“U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran,” it said, urging those without a valid U.S. passport to apply for one after leaving the country.
The embassy also advised U.S. citizens living in Iran to stay aware of their surroundings, avoid participating in demonstrations, and “keep a low profile.”
The United States has no diplomatic or consular relations with Iran and depends on the Swiss government, via its embassy in Tehran, as its protecting power for U.S. interests, according to the embassy.
