Which countries are urging citizens to leave Iran amid US threat of force?
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
As tensions between the United States and Iran escalate, a growing number of countries have advised their citizens in Iran to leave immediately due to the heightened risk of military conflict. The US has continued to threaten potential strikes against Iran over its nuclear program, leading to concerns about regional instability. Countries including Germany, India, South Korea, Poland, Serbia, Sweden, and Australia have issued warnings, urging citizens to depart Iran as soon as possible. These actions reflect the increasing global concern over the volatile security situation in the Middle East.
The US has significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying large aircraft carriers such as the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald Ford. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with a third round of indirect talks scheduled for Thursday in Geneva. However, tensions remain high, as Iran has repeatedly emphasized that it will not agree to Washington’s demand for zero nuclear enrichment, considering its missile program a "red line." US President Trump has struck a belligerent tone, accusing Tehran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program and claiming Iranian missiles can reach the US mainland without providing evidence.
The warnings from these countries highlight the real possibility of conflict and the need for preparedness. For instance, Australia advised citizens to leave Iran "as soon as possible," citing arbitrary detention risks and volatile security conditions. Poland’s prime minister called on Polish nationals in Iran to leave immediately, noting that the potential for a conflict is very real. Sweden and Serbia also issued similar advisories, urging their citizens to avoid travel to Iran due to rapidly escalating tensions.
This situation underscores the broader geopolitical stakes at play. The US military build-up and Iran’s defiant stance have created a powder keg in the region. While diplomatic efforts continue, the possibility of escalation remains significant, with countries scrambling to protect their citizens. For readers interested in global politics, this highlights the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and the potential for widespread conflict that could impact global stability.
The actions by these nations also demonstrate how external factors can influence travel advisories and diplomatic relations. As Iran’s nuclear program remains a central issue, the international community watches closely, with tensions showing no signs of abating. The situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of international relations and the potential for military action to disrupt global peace.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026