This was Trump’s most serious warning yet regarding this matter.
The State Department is urging U.S. citizens to depart Iran without delay, citing escalating tensions as indirect nuclear discussions between the United States and Tehran approach. The negotiations are being facilitated by the Gulf country of Oman.
In a late-Thursday alert, the U.S. government urged Americans still inside Iran to prepare departure plans that do not depend on U.S. government assistance. Those unable to leave were instructed to maintain a low profile, stay alert, and closely monitor their surroundings.
U.S. officials have long warned Americans against traveling to Iran, but the advisory has taken on new urgency following recent unrest. Earlier this year, Iran’s ruling Shiite regime forcefully suppressed nationwide protests sparked by economic collapse and rising public anger. Reports indicate large numbers of demonstrators were killed as authorities moved swiftly to restore control.
At the same time, Omani officials confirmed that an initial round of indirect discussions has already taken place. Participants reportedly included Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Footage aired by Oman’s government media indicated that Adm. Brad Cooper, who leads U.S. Central Command, was present at the discussions alongside Oman’s foreign minister. His attendance signaled a departure from earlier negotiations and highlighted the heightened stakes surrounding the talks.
In a statement, Oman’s Foreign Ministry said the discussions focused on laying the groundwork for renewed diplomatic and technical negotiations, with the goal of promoting long-term security and stability in the region. Neither the United States nor Iran immediately released official summaries of the talks.
Meanwhile, pressure on Tehran continues to intensify. Following Iran’s violent crackdown on protesters, President Trump ordered the deployment of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln to the Middle East and issued repeated warnings that Iran would face consequences if it refused to negotiate.
In a recent interview, Trump was asked whether Iran’s supreme leader should fear additional U.S. action following American strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites in June 2025.
“He should be very worried,” Trump said. “They’re negotiating with us.”
The president also suggested Iran may be attempting to restart its nuclear weapons program. If that proves true, Trump warned that the United States would be prepared to respond decisively.
“If they’re doing that,” Trump said, “our bombers will have to do their job again.”
As the situation continues to evolve, U.S. officials are urging Americans to prioritize their safety and leave Iran while commercial travel options remain available.