The US State Department issued an urgent security alert on Sunday, advising all Americans in Iran to depart immediately and cautioning against travel to several Middle Eastern countries. This measure follows Israel’s recent military actions in Iran, targeting nuclear facilities and missile sites, significantly escalating tensions in the region.
The advisory explicitly urges Americans in Iran to leave the country immediately, advising those unable to depart to shelter in place and prepare for extended periods of confinement. The alert highlights the increasingly dangerous situation for Americans due to the volatile regional climate, emphasising the lack of U.S. diplomatic representation in Iran. The Swiss Embassy in Tehran acts as the protecting power for US interests in the country, a crucial point given the strained relationship between the two nations.
The State Department’s advisory makes clear that the U.S. government isn’t currently organising evacuation efforts for Americans in Israel, following the closure of Ben Gurion Airport. The alert also warns of potential missile and drone activity over Iraq and Jordan.
The alert provides details on potential departure routes for Americans in Iran, acknowledging the complexities of the situation. While Iranian airspace remains closed, the advisory urges those attempting air travel to confirm their plans directly with their airlines. Regarding land borders, the alert notes that while Turkish borders are open, Iranian restrictions on non-Turkish nationals might exist.
“U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason and should depart Iran immediately if they are there. U.S. citizens who are unable to depart Iran should be prepared to shelter in place for extended periods. U.S. citizens in Iran face serious, increasing dangers due to rising regional tensions. The U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for United States interests in Iran,” the advisory reads.
“As of Saturday, June 14, Iran airspace remains closed. U.S. citizens seeking to depart Iran by air should confirm travel plans with their airlines,” it reads further.
For those considering the Azerbaijan border, the advisory emphasises the need for prior authorisation from the Azerbaijani government, highlighting the necessity of contacting the US Embassy in Baku well in advance. Detailed instructions for obtaining the required approval, including necessary documentation, are provided in the alert.
For U.S. citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Azerbaijan border, the advisory said, “Azerbaijan’s land borders remain closed, but U.S. citizens may be able to enter Azerbaijan at the Astara border crossing on June 15 with special authorization. U.S. citizens need approval from the Government of Azerbaijan before going to the border. U.S. Embassy Baku must facilitate this. U.S. citizens that plan to request entry into Azerbaijan should send personal details (name, date of birth, passport information) and a photograph of their passport biodata page to the U.S. Embassy Baku American Citizens Services Unit at BakuACS@state.gov”.
