US State Dept Warns: “Leave Iran Now” – Americans Urged to Exit Amid Imminent Military Escalation Fears
Level 4 advisory signals high risk of conflict; NRIs in region advised caution
The United States has escalated its travel advisory for Iran to the highest “Do Not Travel” Level 4, explicitly instructing American citizens to “depart Iran immediately” due to acute risks of military confrontation and arbitrary arrests. Issued by the State Department amid spiraling Israel-Iran hostilities and intelligence on potential strikes, the alert comes days after President Trump’s reelection rhetoric on confronting Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
“Leave Iran now… Commercial flights are unreliable; USG cannot assist evacuation. Risks include missile exchanges, cyber threats, detention without cause.”
• Recent Israeli airstrikes on IRGC sites
• US intel on Iran’s uranium enrichment nearing weapons-grade
• Proxy clashes in Yemen, Syria involving Houthis, Hezbollah
• Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy revival signals
Over 800 Americans remain in Iran despite prior warnings, facing dual US-Iran citizenship perils where Tehran doesn’t recognize renunciation. Commercial air routes face disruptions, with airlines like Emirates and Qatar rerouting. The advisory cites volatile security, wrongful detentions (e.g., journalist cases), and terror threats from IRGC affiliates.
Global ripple effects loom: Oil prices spiked 3% on announcement, impacting India’s import bill. MEA has reiterated “exercise utmost caution” for Indians in Iran (approx. 8,000 students/workers), advising registration on MADAD portal. Regional allies like Saudi Arabia echo evacuation calls.
Key Questions Answered:
Q: Alternatives to flying out? Overland to Turkey/Armenia possible but risky; no US consular aid.
Q: Impact on dual nationals? Iran mandates military service for males; exit bans common.
Q: Validity period? Indefinite until de-escalation; monitor travel.state.gov.
Q: India’s advisory level? Level 3 (Reconsider Travel), updated last week.
This marks the starkest US warning since 2020 Soleimani strike, underscoring Middle East powder-keg status. Travelers worldwide should reassess plans amid shadow diplomacy.
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