The Spanish government has formally urged Spanish nationals currently in Iran to leave the country as soon as possible, citing a rapidly deteriorating security situation and growing instability across the region.
Spa.in Press
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the warning comes amid widespread internal protests, ongoing since late December, and an increasingly tense geopolitical context in the Middle East. Multiple sources report numerous deaths and mass arrests of demonstrators, while severe restrictions on communications — including internet shutdowns and the suspension of international phone calls — have significantly limited contact with the outside world.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stressed that the safety of Spanish citizens is the government’s top priority, and advised those still in Iran to leave the country using any available means and to avoid all non-essential travel within its borders.
Flights disrupted, land exits remain open
Air travel to and from Iran has been heavily disrupted, with many international airlines suspending their operations. The Ministry recommends that travellers check flight availability frequently, as connections may change depending on how the situation evolves.
As an alternative, Spanish authorities note that land borders with Armenia, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan remain open to foreign nationals, offering possible exit routes should air travel prove impossible.
Strong warning against protests and sensitive activities
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against participating in or approaching demonstrations, and warns citizens not to take photographs or videos, particularly of official buildings, military facilities or government infrastructure. Spanish officials note that several European nationals have been detained and sentenced to prison terms in recent months for such activities.
Spanish citizens in Iran are urged to follow communications from the Spanish Embassy in Tehran once internet access is restored. For foreign residents holding work permits, the Ministry reminds that an official exit permit is required under Iranian law, which must be arranged by the employer, as embassies have no legal authority to authorise departures.
The Spanish government strongly discourages all travel to Iran at this time, warning that the security situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate further at short notice.
