American citizens ordered to evacuate Iran

US State Department urges all American citizens in Iran to evacuate the country immediately as death toll from crackdown on protests soars.

By World Israel News Staff

The United States has called on American citizens in Iran to evacuate the country immediately, as the Iranian government expands its efforts to block internet access across the country while cracking down on anti-regime protests.

On Tuesday, the US State Department issued evacuation orders for all American nationals, including dual citizens, currently located in Iran.

“Leave Iran now,” the notice emphasized. “Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on US government help.”

The advisory cited the ongoing anti-regime protests, as well as the government crackdown on the demonstrations and attempts to cut internet and cellphone communications within Iran and between Iran and the outside world.

“Protests across Iran are escalating and may turn violent,” the State Department warned, “resulting in arrests and injuries. Increased security measures, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and internet blockages are ongoing.”

The US warned that travel out of Iran is becoming increasingly difficult, as major air carriers suspend flights to and from the Islamic Republic.

“The government of Iran has restricted access to mobile, landline, and national internet networks. Airlines continue to limit or cancel flights to and from Iran, with several suspending service until Friday, January 16.”

Americans unable to leave by plane are advised to exit the country by land through neighboring countries such as Turkey or Armenia.

“US citizens should expect continued internet outages, plan alternative means of communication, and, if safe to do so, consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Turkiye.”

The State Department emphasized that the US “cannot guarantee” the safety of citizens attempting to evacuate.

For those unable to leave the country, the notice advised that they “find a secure location” within their residences and to ensure they have sufficient essential supplies, including food, water, and medicine.