US tells citizens to leave Iran immediately, warns of travel disruptions

US urges Americans to leave Iran

The United States has issued a fresh advisory against travel to Iran, urging American citizens to avoid the country “for any reason” and calling on those already there to leave immediately amid heightened tensions and the threat of further escalation in West Asia.In a security alert, the US Virtual Embassy in Iran said the regional security situation remained complex and cautioned that travellers could face flight cancellations, airspace closures and other disruptions.“Do not travel to Iran for any reason. US citizens should leave Iran now,” the advisory said.The US Mission urged Americans in the region to remain highly vigilant and closely monitor developments affecting airports, airlines and border crossings.It also warned that procedures at Iran’s land borders could change without notice and advised travellers to check the entry requirements of any country they may seek to enter.The US also cited the activities of Iranian-backed Houthi forces, which have carried out attacks in Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting civilian airports.“Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including civilian airports.

This military conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly,” the alert said.The United States further warned that its diplomatic facilities, including locations outside the Middle East, have been targeted in the past and that Iran or groups supportive of Tehran could target US interests, businesses and institutions overseas.American citizens were advised to enrol in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and facilitate contact with US diplomatic authorities during emergencies.The alert also urged citizens to avoid demonstrations, large gatherings and areas with a heavy police presence, while maintaining a low profile at locations publicly associated with the United States.In the event of an aerial attack, Americans were instructed to stay away from windows and glass doors, avoid fallen debris and monitor official communications.The alert comes amid an escalating confrontation between the United States and Iran, with Washington maintaining military and maritime pressure on Tehran and Iranian officials warning of retaliation against US interests in the region.The latest warning follows a separate US security alert for Americans and US government personnel in Saudi Arabia. The US Mission in Saudi Arabia recently required government employees to obtain special authorisation for official and personal travel to Taif and Yanbu amid heightened security concerns following Houthi attacks.Saudi authorities had also issued an emergency warning over a “hostile aerial threat” after a ballistic missile was launched towards Riyadh. Saudi-led coalition forces said the missile was intercepted and reported attempted attacks targeting civilians and infrastructure in Bish, Taif, Farasan and Yanbu.