Washington, Feb 6 (.) The United States has issued an urgent warning to American citizens in Iran, urging them to leave the country immediately as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate.
The advisory, released by the Virtual US Embassy in Iran, instructs Americans to “have a plan for departing Iran” that does not depend on US government assistance, citing growing unrest, security risks, and the likelihood of sudden travel disruptions.
The warning comes ahead of US-Iran talks on Friday in Oman. The embassy warned of heightened security measures, including road closures, disruptions to public transport, widespread internet restrictions, and flight cancellations.
However, tensions have intensified in recent weeks, with Trump announcing the deployment of what he called an “armada” to the Gulf region. The force includes the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its escort vessels, which have been stationed in the area since late January.
US officials warned that Americans should expect continued internet disruptions and plan alternative methods of communication. If conditions allow, citizens were advised to consider leaving Iran by land through Armenia or Turkey.
“Flight cancellations and disruptions are possible with little warning,” the advisory said, urging travelers to confirm arrangements directly with airlines. Those unable to depart were advised to remain in secure locations, stock essential supplies such as food, water, and medication, avoid demonstrations, and keep a low profile.
The advisory also urged Americans to monitor local media, keep mobile phones charged, maintain regular contact with family and friends, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time security updates.
Washington further cautioned US-Iranian dual nationals to leave Iran using Iranian passports, noting that Iran does not recognize dual citizenship and treats such individuals solely as Iranian citizens.
“US nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran,” the advisory warned, adding that possession of a US passport or ties to the United States could be grounds for detention. It also noted that the US government cannot guarantee the safety of citizens crossing land borders.
Dual US-Iranian nationals must exit using Iranian passports, as Iran does not recognise dual nationality. Citizens are urged to avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay in regular contact with family.
Those without a valid US passport should apply at the nearest US embassy or consulate after leaving Iran.
The warning also listed exit routes, including Armenia and Turkey crossings, which are open with visa-free stays; Turkmenistan is open with prior authorisation; Azerbaijan remains closed except for emergencies.
The US has insisted that any agreement must include restrictions on Iran’s missile program, while Iran has said it will negotiate only on nuclear-related issues. The deadlock has fueled mutual threats of airstrikes.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the meeting will begin at 10:00 local time (06:00 GMT) in Muscat. The negotiations come after weeks of heightened tensions between the two countries.
The US delegation is expected to include West Asia envoy Steve Witkoff and possibly former White House adviser Jared Kushner. The discussions take place against a backdrop of tensions in US-Iran relations, which escalated after a 12-day conflict involving Israel in June 2025, during which US forces bombed key Iranian nuclear facilities in Fordow, Isfahan.
Trump has bolstered US forces in the region and threatened military action if Iran does not agree to a deal on its nuclear program and cease targeting protesters. Asked if Khamenei should be worried, Trump told NBC News on Wednesday: “I would say he should be very worried.”
Araghchi expressed gratitude to Omani authorities for facilitating the talks. The Iranian Foreign Ministry said the negotiations would be conducted “with authority” and aim for a “fair, mutually satisfactory, and honorable understanding” on the nuclear issue. However, Tehran emphasized that past experiences with the US continue to shape its diplomatic approach.
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