The U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran is urging American citizens currently in the country to depart immediately. This warning follows reports of over 600 fatalities during ongoing anti-government protests, with a significant number identified as protesters by activist groups. The Human Rights Defenders News Agency highlights that 512 victims were protesters, while 134 were members of security forces, according to the Associated Press.
The embassy’s message on its website reads, “Leave Iran now.” It advises residents to create an exit plan that doesn’t depend on U.S. government assistance and recommends overland routes to Armenia or Turkey, provided these are safe. For those unable to vacate their homes, it suggests finding a secure location within their residence and gathering essential supplies like food and water.
The situation has escalated, with Iran recently executing protesters connected to the unrest. As protests intensify, the embassy warns that they may lead to increased violence and arrests. There are rising security measures, roadblocks, disruptions in public transport, and extensive internet outages. Communications infrastructure is heavily restricted, affecting access to mobile and landline services. Additionally, many airlines have halted flights to and from Iran, with some suspending operations until mid-January.
Initially, protests arose late last month over soaring inflation and a significant decline in the rial’s value, which has plummeted by nearly half against the dollar within a year. Inflation rates surged past 40% in December.
The unrest has now spread to universities and various cities, with young demonstrators clashing with security forces. The embassy emphasizes that dual U.S.-Iranian nationals must leave using their Iranian passport, as Iran does not recognize dual citizenship and will treat them solely as Iranian citizens. American citizens are at considerable risk of being interrogated or detained, even just for showing a U.S. passport.
While Turkmenistan’s land border is open, U.S. nationals need special permission to approach. Those wishing to leave via Azerbaijan should be aware that their entry from Iran may be restricted during times of heightened tension, such as the last conflict with Israel.
The U.S. Virtual Embassy further explains that since there are no diplomatic relations with Iran, the Swiss government manages U.S. interests there. Recently, the State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Iran, cautioning against visiting due to terrorism risks, insurrection, potential kidnap, and unlawful detention of U.S. citizens.
