U.S. issues security alert telling citizens to leave Iran inmeadility

The United States is alerting its citizens to leave Iran inmeadility as protests continue to escalate nationwide, warning of possible violence, arrests, widespread internet shutdowns, and disruptions to travel, according to the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran.

In a security alert issued on Monday, the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran said protests that began in late December have intensified in recent days, leading to increased security measures, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and restrictions on mobile, landline, and national internet networks across the country.

“Leave Iran now,” the alert said. “Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help.”

The alert said airlines continue to limit or cancel flights to and from Iran, with several carriers suspending service until Friday. U.S. citizens were warned to expect continued internet outages and to plan alternative means of communication.

The embassy warned that U.S. citizens face a significant risk of questioning, arrest, or detention, and that showing a U.S. passport or demonstrating ties to the United States can be grounds for detention.

The U.S. government said it cannot guarantee the safety of citizens who choose to depart Iran and advised those unable to leave to remain in secure locations, avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile, and maintain supplies of food, water, medications, and other essentials.

The U.S. government advised Americans, if safe, to consider leaving Iran by land through neighboring countries, including Armenia and Türkiye. U.S. citizens were told not to travel to Afghanistan, Iraq, or the Pakistan-Iran border area.

Large demonstrations have been reported in multiple cities, including Tehran, as protests have escalated in recent days. Witnesses contacted by media outlets have reported hundreds of deaths during a crackdown by Iranian security forces.