Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, Sep 21: The United States has issued a fresh security warning urging American citizens not to travel to Iran “for any reason” and asking those already in the country to leave immediately amid heightened tensions and the risk of further escalation in West Asia.
The US Virtual Embassy in Iran said the regional security environment remained complex and warned that travellers could face flight cancellations, airspace closures and other disruptions. The US Department of State continues to list Iran at Level 4, “Do Not Travel”, citing risks including terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest and wrongful detention of US citizens.
“Do not travel to Iran for any reason. US citizens should leave Iran now,” the advisory said.
The US Mission urged Americans in the region to remain highly vigilant and closely monitor developments affecting airports, airlines and border crossings. It also warned that procedures at Iran’s land borders could change without notice and advised travellers to check entry requirements for any country they may seek to enter.
The advisory also cited activities by Iranian-supported Houthi forces, including attacks in Saudi Arabia and strikes targeting civilian airports, warning that the military conflict could escalate rapidly.
Washington further cautioned that US diplomatic facilities, including locations outside the Middle East, have been targeted in the past. It said Iran or groups supportive of Tehran could also target US interests, businesses and institutions overseas.
American citizens were advised to enrol in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides security updates and enables US diplomatic authorities to contact travellers or their emergency contacts during emergencies.
The alert also advised Americans to avoid demonstrations, large gatherings and areas with a heavy police presence, while maintaining a low profile at locations publicly associated with the United States.
In the event of an aerial attack, Americans were instructed to stay away from windows and glass doors, avoid fallen debris and monitor official communications.
The latest warning comes amid heightened tensions involving the United States and Iran. The US Department of State has separately warned Americans across the Middle East that the security environment remains complex, with the possibility of further escalation, flight cancellations, airspace closures and other travel disruptions.
The warning follows separate US security guidance concerning Saudi Arabia, where Washington has also urged Americans to exercise increased caution amid regional security concerns.
The State Department advises Americans in the Middle East to follow the latest guidance from the nearest US embassy or consulate and use official channels for security updates and assistance.