Travel Safety in Iran

Iran remains engaged in a state of conflict with the United States (US) and Israel. While multiple ceasefires have been brokered between the warring parties, these have often been breached and led to an immediate resumption of hostilities. This has taken the form airstrikes in Iranian territory, targeting major urban centres, including the capital of Theran.

The state of conflict has also led to heightened risks of civil unrest, given the potential for a recurrence of large-scale anti-government protests. The risks of crime and kidnapping are also elevated from their baseline levels, due to a deterioration in the social order. Medical facilities - which are reasonable in major cities - are likely to be strained.

Travellers to Iran face additional risks associated with the country’s conservative Islamic governance and judicial system. There are significant restrictions on visitors. These are particularly relevant to female and LGBTQ+ travellers, who could face both legal and societal recriminations. Foreigners have also been known to be arrested without due process.

There is an ongoing risk of terrorism. The risk increases in the country’s shared border areas with Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan, where several armed groups operate. These areas also experience elevated levels of kidnapping and conflict.