January 13, 2026 | 05:07 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The virtual United States Embassy in Iran on Monday, January 12, 2026, warned its citizens to exit Iran immediately, amid the escalating protests across the country that could "turn violent."
"Protests across Iran are escalating and may turn violent, resulting in arrests and injuries. Increased security measures, road closures, public transportation disruptions, and internet blockages are ongoing," the warning stated, as cited by NDTV.
The U.S. Embassy also added that the Iranian government has restricted access to mobile, landline, and the national internet networks. The advisory also highlighted travel disruptions, with several airlines having also restricted or canceled flights exiting or entering Iran.
"Airlines continue to limit or cancel flights to and from Iran, with several suspending service until Friday, January 16," the warning read.
The U.S. Embassy urged its citizens to consider leaving Iran via land routes to Armenia and Turkey. "U.S. citizens should expect continued internet outages, plan alternative means of communication, and, if safe to do so, consider departing Iran by land to Armenia or Turkey," the advisory added.
"Leave Iran now. Have a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help," read the message.
For those unable to leave their residence, the embassy recommended seeking a safe location and stocking up on essential supplies. "If you cannot leave, find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items," it added. The U.S. Embassy also urged its citizens not to participate in protests and to be vigilant of their surroundings.
The advisory reiterated serious risks for U.S. citizens, especially those with dual nationality. "U.S.-Iranian dual nationals must exit Iran on Iranian passports. The Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality and will treat U.S.-Iranian dual nationals solely as Iranian citizens," the warning stated.
"U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran," the advisory stated. The U.S. Embassy noted that showing a U.S. passport or displaying ties to the United States could be sufficient grounds for Iranian authorities to detain an individual.
Large-scale demonstrations have been ongoing in various provinces, including Azerbaijan province and the city of Arak in central Iran over the past few days. Crowds have been waving flags and chanting supportive slogans for Iran, as reported by Press TV. These protests and counter-demonstrations come after days of unrest amid soaring inflation, economic hardships, and public anger over governance.
Read: Pro-Government Protest in Iran Condemns US and Israeli Intervention
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