Iran: US officials advise citizens against travel to the country due to threat of arbitrary detention as of July 5

Event

The US Department of State issued a travel advisory July 5 urging American citizens to avoid traveling to Iran. The advisory comes amid concerns of arbitrary detention and kidnapping of US citizens and dual nationals. Officials have further noted that the US does not have any diplomatic or consular relations with Iran; therefore, the US government is unable to provide emergency services to its citizens in the country.

Context

The threat of arbitrary detention and imprisonment of foreign nationals, especially Western visitors, will likely persist in Iran for the foreseeable future. Security forces regularly detain and arrest foreigners of Iranian origin on security and espionage grounds. Foreign travelers to Iran, particularly Western visitors, continue to face questioning, detention, and imprisonment, particularly if they have any ties to military or government agencies. Iranian security officials have always been suspicious of Western travelers and Iranians who travel between their adopted countries and Iran. In light of continued tensions with the US and its allies, Iran is likely to intensify scrutiny of foreigners and dual citizens visiting the country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.