Iran-US Tensions 2026: What Travelers and Expats Must Know Now

What Happened and Why It Matters to You

The US president publicly threatened military strikes against Iranian power plants and key bridges if Iran proceeds with a blockade of the Hormuz Strait — one of the world's most strategically vital waterways, through which approximately 20% of global oil supply passes daily (source: US Energy Information Administration, 2025).

For the millions of barrels of oil and liquefied natural gas that transit this corridor every day, a closure would trigger a global energy shock. But for foreign nationals living in or visiting Iran, the immediate concern is different: what does this military posturing mean for your personal safety, your ability to leave the country, and your access to basic services?

The answer is: a great deal. Here is what you need to understand and act on.

Immediate Security Risks for Expats and Travelers in Iran

Infrastructure Vulnerability

Any military action targeting Iranian power plants would have cascading effects on everyday life. Electricity blackouts could disrupt:

• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Water treatment and supply systems
• ATMs, banking networks, and electronic payments
• Communication networks including mobile and internet services
• Fuel distribution systems and petrol stations

Even without a strike, the credible threat of one can trigger panic buying, hoarding of fuel and food, and social unrest — all of which create dangerous environments for foreigners.

Airspace and Border Closures

In a military escalation scenario, Iranian airspace could be closed with little or no notice, as has occurred in other regional conflicts. Ground border crossings may also be suspended, overwhelmed, or deemed unsafe. Foreign nationals could find themselves stranded inside the country with no clear exit route.

⚠️ Attention

Do not assume that because things seem calm in your city today, they will remain so tomorrow. Military and geopolitical escalations can trigger rapid, unpredictable changes on the ground. Have an exit plan ready before you need one.

What the Hormuz Strait Blockade Means on the Ground

The Strait of Hormuz, located at the southern tip of Iran between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is the sole maritime exit for many Gulf oil exporters. A blockade — whether threatened or enacted — historically produces:

• Fuel price spikes and shortages within Iran itself, as domestic distribution relies heavily on refined imports
• Rapid currency devaluation of the Iranian rial, which directly affects foreigners trying to access or exchange money
• Increased military and security presence in ports, southern cities (Bandar Abbas, Kish Island, Qeshm), and along major highways
• Heightened tensions toward perceived Western nationals, even those from neutral countries

Foreign nationals — regardless of their nationality — should be aware that in moments of nationalistic tension, being visibly foreign carries risk.

Your Practical Checklist Right Now

If you are currently in Iran, take the following steps immediately — before the situation deteriorates further:

1. Register with your embassy or consulate. Most countries operate a traveler or resident registration service. This ensures your government knows you are there and can contact you in an emergency. Find your nearest embassy using the SOS-Expat.com embassy locator.
2. Prepare emergency cash in hard currency. Iranian banking systems are already isolated from SWIFT. In a crisis, electronic payment infrastructure may fail entirely. Keep physical US dollars or euros accessible.
3. Identify your exit routes. Research available land borders (Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan) and their current operational status. Know which option is feasible for you.
4. Stock essential supplies. Maintain at least a week's supply of water, food, medications, and fuel if you have a vehicle.
5. Limit unnecessary movement. Avoid government buildings, military installations, oil infrastructure, and large public gatherings.
6. Keep your passport and travel documents secure and accessible. In an evacuation scenario, you may need to move quickly.

✅ Conseil pratique

Download offline maps of Iran and your potential exit routes now, while internet access is reliable. Apps like Maps.me or Google Maps offline mode can be critical if mobile data networks go down during a crisis.

Which Nationalities Face the Greatest Risks?

While all foreign nationals face elevated risk during a military escalation, some groups warrant particular caution:

• US and UK nationals: Iran does not recognize dual nationality and has detained foreign nationals as bargaining chips in past diplomatic crises. The US and UK do not have embassies in Tehran — Swiss and Omani missions represent their interests, respectively.
• EU nationals: The EU has repeatedly issued Iran travel advisories. Check your country's foreign ministry website for the latest guidance.
• Gulf state nationals: Regional politics make nationals of UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain potentially vulnerable in certain contexts.
• Dual nationals: Iran does not recognize foreign nationality for its own citizens. If you hold Iranian citizenship alongside another passport, you are treated as Iranian under local law.

Long-Term Residents: Planning for Extended Disruption

If you are a long-term resident in Iran — whether for work, family, or business — the calculus is more complex than for tourists. Consider:

• Your legal obligations: Leaving during a valid residency period or work contract may have administrative and contractual consequences. A consultation with a legal professional familiar with Iranian law can clarify your options.
• Property and assets: In a severe escalation, foreign-owned property or bank accounts could become difficult to access or transfer. Document everything now.
• Dependents: If you have children or dependents, verify their documentation status and ensure they can travel with you if needed.

💡 Bon a savoir

Iran's telecommunications infrastructure, while more developed than often assumed, is subject to government-controlled shutdowns during political crises — as seen in November 2019 when internet access was cut for nearly two weeks. Have an alternative communication plan, such as a satellite messenger device.