The United States Virtual Embassy in Iran on Monday (local time) issued an advisory for American citizens to “Leave Iran now”, warning that protests across the country are “escalating” and could “turn violent”, leading to “arrests, injuries and severe disruptions” to daily life.
In its advisory, the embassy said that the protests across Iran “may turn violent” amid heightened security measures by Iranian authorities.
Advisory Issued
“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 alert said.
It added that the Government of Iran has “restricted access to mobile, landline, and national internet networks.” The advisory also flagged travel disruptions, noting that several airlines have limited or cancelled flights to and from Iran. “Airlines continue to limit or cancel flights to and from Iran, with several suspending service until Friday, January 16,” it said.
Responding to a question on Iran and whether ongoing protests could end without military intervention, Leavitt said, “I think one thing President Trump is very good at is always keeping all of his options on the table, and airstrikes would be one of the many, many options that are on the table for the Commander in Chief. Diplomacy is always the first option for the president.”
