(The Hill) – The Trump administration is telling U.S. citizens to exit Iran immediately in the wake of unrest in the country.
A security alert by the U.S.’s virtual embassy for Iran advises American citizens to “[l]eave Iran now” and “[h]ave a plan for departing Iran that does not rely on U.S. government help.”
“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 security alert reads.
“The Government of Iran has restricted access to mobile, landline, and national internet networks.”
On Monday, President Trump warned of imposing a 25 percent tariff on countries that do business with Iran due to a violent crackdown by the Iranian government on increasing anti-government protests.
“Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America. This Order is final and conclusive,” Trump said on Truth Social.
In prior weeks, protests against the Iranian government have sprung up amid Iranian leaders intensely cracking down on the demonstrations. Over 500 people have died in connection with the protests, estimates have said, according to activists, and 10,600 have been detained, the Human Right Activists News Agency said.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Monday the country is ready for war amid Trump reportedly considering military options to get involved and safeguard protesters in Iran.