On January 12, the administration of President Donald Trump called on US citizens to leave Iran immediately in the context of increasing instability in this country.
In a security announcement, the virtual US Embassy in charge of Iran advised US citizens to "leave Iran now" and "prepare a plan to leave without the support of the US government".
The US has no embassy in Iran since 1979, but has a virtual embassy to provide information and recommendations to citizens in Iran.
Protests across Iran are escalating and could become violent, leading to arrests and casualties. Increased security measures, road blockades, public transport disruptions and internet blockages are taking place," the statement stated.
The Iranian government has restricted access to mobile networks, landlines and the national Internet system.
At the same time, President Donald Trump warned that he would impose a 25% tax on countries doing business with Iran, in response to the Tehran government's crackdown on rising anti-government protests.
With immediate effect, any country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will be subject to a 25% tax rate on all business activities with the US. This decree is final and takes decisive effect" - Mr. Trump wrote on the social network Truth Social.
In recent weeks, protests against the Iranian government have flared up amid increased repression by the country's leaders against protesters.
According to activists, it is estimated that at least nearly 600 people have been killed in connection with the protests, and about 10,600 people have been arrested.
Meanwhile, on the same day, January 12, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that his country is ready for war, amid reports that Mr. Trump is considering military options to intervene and protect protesters in Iran.
