The Canadian government has issued a stark travel advisory urging all its citizens to leave Iran immediately, as anti-government protests intensify across the country and the security situation grows increasingly volatile.
In an advisory published on Tuesday, Canada warned against all travel to Iran, citing nationwide demonstrations, heightened regional tensions, a high risk of arbitrary detention, and the unpredictable enforcement of local laws.
“Avoid all travel to Iran due to ongoing nationwide demonstrations, tensions in the region, the high risk of arbitrary detention and the unpredictable enforcement of local laws,” the notice stated. It further advised, “You should leave Iran now if you can do so safely.”
The government noted that while many airlines have suspended flights to and from Iran, land borders with Armenia and Turkey remain open and do not require visas for Canadian passport holders.
Background of the Crisis
The warning comes as Iran enters its third week of widespread civil unrest. Protests began in Tehran on December 28 following the collapse of the Iranian currency and have since spread to all 31 provinces, transforming into a broader movement against the country's clerical leadership. Demonstrators cite economic hardship, government mismanagement, Western sanctions, and restrictions on personal freedoms as primary grievances.
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), the verified death toll has surpassed 2,000, including 1,850 protesters, 135 government-affiliated individuals, nine minors, and nine civilians not involved in the demonstrations. The group also reported at least 16,784 detentions.
The Iranian government has imposed a near-total digital blackout since last Thursday, severely limiting communication and access to information in an attempt to suppress dissent.
International Response
Canada’s advisory follows similar actions and condemnations from other Western nations. The United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany have summoned Iranian diplomats to protest the violent crackdown, while U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at possible military intervention.
Canada emphasized that its ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is “extremely limited” and warned that Iranian authorities have detained foreign and dual nationals in the past to exert political pressure on other governments.
The situation remains fluid and dangerous, with no clear resolution in sight. For Canadians still in Iran, the message is unequivocal: depart while safe exit routes remain available.
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