Germany has officially advised all its citizens to leave Iran immediately, citing growing security concerns following escalating tensions between Tehran and Western nations over Iran’s nuclear program.
The warning comes days after Germany, along with France and the United Kingdom, triggered the United Nations’ “snapback” mechanism to reimpose sanctions on Iran, accusing Tehran of failing to comply with the 2015 nuclear deal.
The German Foreign Ministry highlighted that Iranian authorities may retaliate against Western countries, posing serious risks to foreign nationals living in Iran.
Officials also noted that the German Embassy in Tehran can provide only limited consular assistance, underlining the severity of the situation for citizens still in the country.
Relations between Iran and the West have sharply deteriorated after Israel and the United States launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and ballistic sites in June 2025.
The attacks, aimed at degrading Tehran’s nuclear capabilities, intensified hostilities in the region and heightened fears of further escalation.
Iranian officials have warned they will respond to the sanctions, though the exact nature of any retaliation remains unclear.
Germany and other Western nations fear that civilians, expatriates, and diplomatic missions could be targeted amid rising tensions.
The United States welcomed Germany’s advisory, reaffirming its readiness for direct engagement with Iran to pursue a peaceful resolution.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that the reimposition of sanctions does not preclude diplomacy but is a necessary step to increase leverage over Iran’s nuclear activities.
Israel also supported the move, with its UN ambassador calling the sanctions a crucial step toward halting Tehran’s nuclear escalation.
Meanwhile, Iran condemned the European action as illegal and unjustified, warning that it could undermine ongoing cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The country has already suspended parts of its engagement with the UN nuclear watchdog, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Germany’s travel advisory reflects growing European concern that rising tensions could escalate into a broader regional conflict.
Analysts warn that civilians, foreign nationals, and international businesses in Iran could face heightened risks if the situation deteriorates.
Authorities continue to advise German citizens in Iran to reconsider their travel plans and take immediate precautions in light of the heightened security threats.