The United States has urged its citizens to leave Iran immediately amid widespread protests in the country and the possibility of strikes by Washington. The corresponding notice was published on January 13 on the website of the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Tehran.
The notice states that U.S. citizens should expect continued internet disruptions, plan alternative means of communication in advance, and, if it is safe, consider leaving Iran overland via Armenia or Turkey.
U.S. authorities also recommended developing an evacuation plan that does not rely on assistance from the U.S. government.
If U.S. citizens are unable to leave Iran, they are advised to stay in a safe location, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and stock up on food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies.
The statement emphasizes that the situation in the country remains unstable and access to information is limited due to internet outages.
It is also reported that France evacuated personnel from its embassy in Iran due to the sudden escalation of the situation. However, part of the diplomatic mission remains in Tehran to assist citizens.
According to AFP sources, French diplomats left Iran on January 11 and 12. The exact number of evacuees has not been disclosed, but the French embassy in Tehran normally employs about 30 staff members.
Sweden also urged its citizens to leave Iran immediately. Citizens of the country are advised to cancel travel plans to Iran, and those already in the country are encouraged to leave as soon as possible.