By Safiyat Muhammed
“As of June 26, 2025, Iran’s airspace has been partially reopened, although business trips from Tehran and other major centers may be interrupted. U.S. citizens should follow local media and consult commercial airlines for flight information,” the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran stated in an official advisory issued Wednesday, The Bureau Newspaper gathered.
The United States government has formally instructed all American citizens residing in or visiting Iran to depart the country immediately, citing persistent regional instability and elevated risks to national security following the Iran-Israel ceasefire.
The advisory follows a fragile truce between Iran and Israel, reached after nearly two weeks of sustained hostilities that saw missile exchanges, proxy escalations, and heightened regional tensions across the Gulf.
Fragile Peace and Persistent Threats
Despite the declared ceasefire, U.S. officials believe the potential for renewed violence remains high, especially as militant factions with ties to both states continue to maneuver in contested regions.
The advisory indicates that Iran’s partial reopening of its airspace may not be sufficient to guarantee safe and timely exits. U.S. citizens are advised not to rely on commercial flights alone and are urged to consider land exits through neighboring countries: Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan—subject to safety and security conditions.
“This is not an evacuation notice supported by the U.S. military. Individuals must make their own arrangements for departure,” the embassy clarified.
U.S. Government Limits on Consular Support
The United States does not maintain a physical diplomatic mission in Iran due to the absence of formal bilateral relations. As such, the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran, operated through regional partners and online platforms, is unable to provide direct or emergency evacuation services.
However, in anticipation of a deteriorating security situation, the U.S. State Department has activated a crisis intake portal, requesting Americans in Iran to register for limited consular support. This portal collects vital personal and travel details to facilitate assistance via third-party missions or regional embassies.
Surveillance, Detention, and Dual National Warnings
The embassy’s warning is particularly dire for American-Iranian dual citizens, who under Iranian law are considered solely Iranian nationals. These individuals may be detained, interrogated, or restricted from leaving the country—especially if Iranian authorities perceive any affiliation with the United States as suspicious.
“The Iranian government does not recognize dual citizenship and may subject such individuals to harassment, arrest, and imprisonment,” the advisory noted.
“Possession of a U.S. passport or any indication of American ties may result in confiscation, detention, or extended interrogation.”
In some instances, Americans have had their passports seized, preventing them from exiting the country. Those holding Iranian passports are advised to ensure that all transit visas are valid for countries en route to the United States, in case their American passports are confiscated.
Prepare for Communications Blackouts
American citizens were further warned to prepare for complete disruptions to internet services and mobile networks. The advisory cited previous instances of nationwide blackouts ordered by Iranian security forces during political protests and foreign escalations.
“Internet access may be cut without notice. Citizens are advised to develop alternative communication strategies and carry physical maps, contact lists, and emergency backup power supplies,” the statement advised.
Emergency Preparedness and Civilian Protocols
Americans unable to leave Iran immediately are advised to:
-
Stock emergency supplies (food, water, medicine) for at least 7 days.
-
Stay indoors in a safe location.
-
Establish routine check-ins with family and friends abroad.
-
Keep essential documents secured and ready.
-
Sign up for the U.S. government’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates.
“Do not wait for a crisis to escalate. Have a go-bag ready. Have a plan for every eventuality,” the embassy added.
Exit Permits and Departure Requirements
All American citizens residing in Iran under permanent residence visas are required to obtain exit permits before leaving. Additionally, Iranian passport holders must pay mandatory exit fees, regardless of the urgency of departure or method of travel.
This bureaucratic process, often weaponized in high-stakes situations, further complicates swift exits, especially during times of geopolitical unrest.
The Bigger Picture
The advisory underscores the long-standing tension between Iran and the United States, aggravated by sanctions, espionage claims, proxy conflicts, and nuclear disputes.
Security analysts suggest that while the Israel-Iran ceasefire may offer temporary reprieve, U.S. citizens remain high-risk targets for politically motivated arrests or leverage in future negotiations.
International watchdogs have called on Tehran to refrain from politicizing dual nationality, while urging Washington to bolster contingency plans for citizens in countries with limited consular access.
The post 🇺🇸 U.S. Orders Immediate Exit of American Citizens from Iran appeared first on The Bureau Newspaper.
