The United States just issued an urgent warning to its citizens in Iran: leave the country now. With high-stakes talks between Washington and Tehran set to kick off in Oman on Friday, the US is warning of escalating security risks and telling Americans not to count on government help to get out.
In an advisory issued by the Virtual US Embassy on Thursday, Americans were told to have their own exit plan ready, citing growing unrest, possible travel disruptions, and rising tensions between the two countries.
Tensions are climbing fast
This warning comes at a tense moment. US President Donald Trump has threatened military action over Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests that started back in December 2025. Since late January, a US naval “armada” — led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln — has been stationed in the Gulf, adding to the already uneasy atmosphere in the region.
Ahead of the talks, the embassy cautioned that security measures inside Iran are ramping up. That could mean road closures, public transport shutdowns, internet restrictions, and flight cancellations. Americans were told to stay away from demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay alert to what’s happening around them.
Getting out might not be easy
The advisory warned that flights could be cancelled with little or no notice, so travelers should check directly with airlines. For those looking to leave, the embassy suggested considering land exits to Armenia or Turkey — but only if it’s safe to do so.
Americans were also strongly advised to avoid traveling to Afghanistan, Iraq, or areas near the Pakistan-Iran border, where security risks are serious.
It’s worth noting: the US has no diplomatic presence in Iran. Its interests there are handled by the Swiss Embassy in Tehran.
What if you can’t leave?
For citizens who can’t get out right away, the embassy recommended finding a secure location, stocking up on essentials like food, water, and medication, and keeping phones charged. They also urged Americans to monitor local media and stay in close touch with family.
The advisory was blunt about the risks: US citizens face a real chance of being questioned or detained in Iran, especially if they show US identification or connections. And if you’re a dual national, you’ll need to exit Iran using an Iranian passport — Tehran doesn’t recognize dual nationality.
High-stakes talks ahead
The upcoming negotiations in Oman will be the first direct talks since US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities back in June. The US delegation will be led by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, while Iran’s team will be headed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Washington has made it clear: it wants Iran to have zero nuclear capacity, and military options are still on the table. Tehran, for its part, has expressed cautious optimism, saying it will engage in talks “in good faith” — but warned it’s ready to hit back if attacked.
International leaders, including those from Germany and Turkey, are urging both sides to choose diplomacy and avoid further escalation.
If you’re an American in Iran right now, the message from the US government is crystal clear: it’s time to go.
