Trump admin issues ‘leave Iran now’ warning to US citizens amid growing anti-regime protests

TEHRAN, IRAN: The Trump administration has issued a stark warning to US citizens in Iran, urging them to leave the country immediately due to escalating unrest.

The alert comes as protests continue to sweep across the nation, with authorities cracking down on demonstrators. Americans are advised to have a departure plan that does not rely on assistance from the US government, as conditions in Iran are becoming increasingly unstable.

Travel warning issued for US citizens in Iran

A security alert issued by the virtual US Embassy in Iran explicitly instructs Americans to “leave Iran now” and warns that the protests may escalate into violence, leading to arrests and injuries.

The alert highlights the extensive disruptions citizens may face, including increased security measures, road closures, interruptions in public transportation, and internet blockages.

“The Government of Iran has restricted access to mobile, landline, and national internet networks,” the alert noted, underscoring the challenges for both communication and safe travel within the country. 

The United States maintains no embassy or consulate in Iran, leaving routine consular services unavailable. The Swiss Embassy provides only limited emergency assistance, and US citizens in detention, particularly those with dual nationality have little access to external support.

Last month, the State Department reported instances where Americans particularly dual US-Iranian citizens, faced prolonged imprisonment without access to legal due process.

Under Iranian law, dual citizenship is not recognized, meaning nationals are treated exclusively as Iranian citizens and are denied assistance from US or Swiss consular services.

The protests themselves have intensified over recent weeks, driven by widespread anger at the Iranian government and met with an increasingly harsh crackdown. Human Rights Activists News Agency reports that more than 500 people may have died in connection with the protests, and approximately 10,600 individuals have been detained.

Trump imposes tariffs on Iran amid protests

President Donald Trump responded to the unrest with a warning of economic consequences for countries doing business with Iran. On Monday, he announced via Truth Social that a 25 percent tariff would be imposed on any nation that engages in trade with the Islamic Republic.

He said, “Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America. This Order is final and conclusive.”

The new tariff follows Trump’s warning of potential military action should Tehran harm protesters. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated on Monday that military options, including air strikes, remain "on the table."

Amid the unrest, Iranian officials have issued stern warnings. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the country is prepared for war, responding to reports that the Trump administration is considering military options to protect protesters and intervene in the crisis.