Iran: British Government advises citizens against travel January 10 /update 2

Event

On Friday, January 10, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office issued a travel advisory for its citizens advising against travel to Iran, citing, "the body of information that UIA Flight 752 was shot down by an Iranian surface-to-air missile, and the heightened tensions." It also advises against flying to, from, and within the country.

The French Government issued a similar directive for its citizens on Tuesday, January 7, adding that those who are already in Iran and unable to leave the country temporarily are advised to remain vigilant and limit their movement within the country. It is also advised for those citizens to report their presence in the country to the French Embassy and Consulate in Tehran.

On Wednesday, January 8, Dutch Government issued a similar directive citing the "unpredictable" security situation in Iran. The Canadian Government also recommended against non-essential travel, warning that dual Canadian-Iranian citizens in Iran, in particular, "are at risk of being arbitrarily questioned, arrested and detained."

Context

The advisory comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States following a targeted attack that killed Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani on January 3. Iranian forces have since retaliated by sending "tens" of missiles to two US bases in Iraq.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to monitor the situation, advised to remain vigilant at all times, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media.