The US State Department has put out a hard alert to Americans: don’t go to Iran. On July 11, 2025, this warning was made as things get worse in the Middle East. The fight between Israel and Iran, along with new US military hits, has made Iran very unsafe. For Americans, and even more for those with Iranian roots, the risks are big. Here’s what you need to know to be safe.
Why This Warning is Key
The US State Department’s advice is firm. Iran is at a Level 4: Do Not Travel alert, the top risk level. The risks are big: danger of terror acts, kidnap, being caught for no clear reason, and being held wrongly. Also, the Iranian leaders do not see dual nationality. This means American-Iranians have unique risks. Help from the US consulate is often not given which leaves US people stuck without help.
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According to State Department voice, Tammy Bruce, “It’s not safe for anyone to travel to Iran.” She added that the new fight has made risks higher. For example, Israel’s “Operation Rising Lion” on June 13 hit Iran’s nuclear spots and army bases. The US came next with “Operation Midnight Hammer” on June 22, hitting like targets. Iran hit back with missile strikes on Israel and a US airbase in Qatar. This has shaken the area, closing air spaces and messing up travel.
Main Risks for Visitors
Going to Iran now is risky for a few reasons. First, the ongoing fight could get worse all of a sudden. Second, US people, especially those with two countries’ passports, could be caught. Iranian leaders may hold those who seem tied to the US, like having a US passport. Third, there’s no US place to give help in Iran, so aid is small. The Swiss Protecting Power, which helps US folks in Iran, can’t give help now.
Also, protests against the US role in the fight might happen. These could aim at Americans outside. The State Department tells travelers to join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at america112.com for on-time alerts. This helps the US embassy find you if there’s a problem. Still, travelers should have a plan to leave that doesn’t count on US government help.
What You Can Do
If you’re in Iran, get out now if it’s safe. Planes going out are few, but land borders to Azerbaijan, Armenia, or Türkiye might be open with special OK. Dual nationals must use Iranian passports to leave and may face checks. If you can’t leave, the State Department says to stay where you are safe. Keep food, water, and meds ready. Watch local news and keep your phone ready.
Before you travel anywhere, look at tips at america112.com. The site has safe travel tips and links to warnings. Also, think about making a will and share key papers with those close to you. This makes sure things are sorted if you’re held or can’t come back.
New Happenings in the Conflict
The fight in the Middle East got worse on June 13, 2025, when Israel hit Iran’s nuclear spots at Natanz and Fordow. The strike, called “Operation Rising Lion,” killed some Iranian leaders and scientists. The US joined in on June 22 with “Operation Midnight Hammer,” hitting Iran’s nuclear setups. President Donald Trump called the hits a big win, saying Iran’s nuclear program was “gone.” But, Iran said these strikes broke international laws.
On June 24, a stop in the fight was told, but things are still tense. Iranian leader Masoud Pezeshkian hoped for talks with the US, but trust is low. Trump, in a talk with Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu, said Iran wants to talk. “They took a hard hit,” he said, showing hints at future talks. Yet, things are still shaky, and travelers should be careful.
Travel Mess in the Area
The fight has caused big travel problems. Lines like United and American stopped flying to Dubai and Doha because of closed air spaces. FlightRadar24 showed no planes going over Iran, Iraq, Syria, or Israel on June 23. For news on flight stops, check FlightRadar24. Travelers should check with lines and watch local news.
Info on Travel Advisories
The US State Department’s travel advisory system uses four levels to show risks. Here’s a list of active Level 4 advisories in the Middle East as of July 2025:
| Place | Why the Advisory | When Given |
|---|---|---|
| Iran | Terror acts, kidnap, being held | Jan 21, 2025 |
| Israel | Fight, terror acts | Jun 16, 2025 |
| Syria | Fight, terror acts | Ongoing |
| Iraq | Fight, crime | Ongoing |
| Lebanon | Unsafe, changing safety | Jun 21, 2025 |
Chart: US State Department Travel Advisories for the Middle East, July 2025
This chart, made for both cell phones and computers, shows how common Level 4 advisories are in the area. All listed spots face big risks, making travel warnings key for safety.
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Tips for Safer Travel
To stay safe, do these things:
- Look at Tips: Go to AMERICA NEWS WORLD (ANW) for the newest travel news.
- Sign Up in STEP: Join for real-time news from the US embassy.
- Stay Away from Big Crowds: Keep away from groups, these could turn rough.
- Stay Under the Radar: Don’t talk politics and dress simple.
- Think Ahead: Have a way out and contacts ready in case of an emergency.
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