Germans in Iran: Immediate departure after massive sanctions warning signal!

Germans in Iran: Immediate departure after massive sanctions warning signal!

Tensions in the relationship between Iran and the E3 states – Germany, France and Great Britain – have reached a new level of escalation. On August 28, 2025, the so-called snapback mechanism was activated to initiate the reintroduction of UN sanctions against Iran. This step was necessary because Iran has repeatedly violated the international nuclear agreement (JCPOA). Loud Mercury If no agreement is reached within 30 days, the sanctions can come into force automatically. This means that all previous UN sanctions against Iran are available again.

In response to these developments, the Foreign Office has issued a stricter travel warning for Iran. All German citizens are urgently requested to leave the country immediately. The warning is extremely urgent as the risk of arbitrary arrests has increased significantly. Even harmless vacation photos or social media posts could be potentially risky. Numerous Germans are particularly affected - including tourists, business travelers and dual nationals who are estimated to still be in Iran.

Dangers and restrictions for Germans in Iran

The Foreign Office draws attention to the massive restrictions caused by the current situation. Many flights have already been canceled, bank cards are not working or only working to a limited extent, and the risk of arbitrary arrests has increased significantly. Individual travelers and people who have connections to Iranians or who have made critical statements about the political situation in Iran are particularly at risk.

Reported in this context ZDF that the German embassy in Tehran is currently closed to visitors. Consular assistance can only be provided to a limited extent. Travelers in Iran are therefore asked to clean digital devices of political content and to register on a crisis preparedness list. It is also advisable to have enough cash on hand and avoid political discussions.

International reactions and Iranian threats

The decision to activate the snapback mechanism is viewed differently internationally. While the USA welcomes the measure by the E3 states, Russia and China vehemently reject the move. For its part, Iran responded to the activation of the mechanism with sharp criticism, describing it as “illegal”. Iranian government officials have announced that they will draw possible consequences that could also affect German interests and nationals. Iran's foreign minister warned of a possible withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the cessation of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The situation remains tense and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate are expected to intensify as the sanctions negotiation deadline approaches. It remains a top priority for German citizens in Iran to take the warnings seriously and try to leave the country immediately.