The United States has issued an urgent directive for all American citizens to depart Iran without delay, as widespread anti-government protests escalate and the Trump administration weighs potential military action against the Middle Eastern nation.
Urgent US Embassy Warning
The US virtual embassy explicitly warned Americans to "leave Iran now." It advised citizens to formulate an exit plan that does not depend on assistance from the US government. The stark alert highlighted that protests across Iran are intensifying and could become violent, leading to arrests and injuries. Officials cautioned Americans to steer clear of demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and advised dual US-Iranian nationals to depart using an Iranian passport, noting Tehran does not recognise dual citizenship.
Deadly Unrest and Regime Crackdown
The warning follows a severe crackdown by Iranian authorities on mass demonstrations. Approximately 600 protesters have been killed and thousands more injured according to reports, as citizens flood the streets of Tehran and other major cities in an attempt to challenge the regime's iron grip on power, which has held since 1979. Human rights organisations have condemned the government's actions, accusing it of kidnapping, torturing, and killing its own people while stifling freedom of expression.
For those attempting to leave, the US has suggested routes via neighbouring countries such as Turkey and Armenia. Americans unable to depart immediately have been instructed to seek a secure location and stock essential items.
Trump's Military and Economic Pressure
In response to the crisis, President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a range of options against Iran, including military strikes and cyber attacks. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Trump is "unafraid to use military options if and when he deems necessary." Concurrently, the US President announced a significant economic measure, imposing a 25 per cent tariff on any country conducting business with the Islamic Republic. This move, declared "final and conclusive" in a Truth Social post, could impact nations like Brazil and Russia which maintain economic ties with Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has claimed the situation is "under total control" and blamed the United States and Israel for instigating the protests, though he provided no evidence. The regime's position is seen as weakened following last year's US-Israeli coordinated airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the diminished influence of its proxy groups after the war in Gaza.
