The situation in Iran is rapidly escalating: ongoing protests are turning into clashes, as a result of which the US State Department has issued an urgent statement calling on its citizens to leave the country immediately. Due to tightened security measures imposed by the authorities, internet and telephone connections have been restricted nationwide, and airlines have canceled or limited flights to and from Iran until January 16.
In the current crisis, Armenia is considered the main and safest way out. As of January 12, the Agarak-Norduz land border crossing remains open. US citizens can enter Armenia with a valid passport and stay for up to 180 days without a visa. The US Embassy in Yerevan has expressed its readiness to assist its citizens and urged them to send the required information to the designated email address before crossing the border.
The statement said that, in addition to Armenia, border crossings with Turkey remain open, but there are severe restrictions or special permit requirements for travel to Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. US citizens, especially those with dual citizenship, are warned that Iran does not recognize dual citizenship, which significantly increases the risk of arrest and detention. They are advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid crowded places, and stockpile essential supplies if leaving the country is not possible at this time.
