Britain outlines exit routes from Iran via Azerbaijan, Armenia UPDATED

The United Kingdom has updated its travel guidance for citizens seeking to leave Iran, outlining overland evacuation routes via neighbouring Armenia and Azerbaijan, the UK Foreign Office said.

Under the revised guidance, British nationals can enter Armenia without a visa for stays of up to 180 days per year. Entry into Azerbaijan, however, requires a visa, and travellers must submit their details in advance through the Foreign Office so that Azerbaijani authorities can issue a registration code.

The Foreign Office also cautioned that its capacity to assist British nationals inside Iran remains severely constrained. It said that in-person consular support cannot be provided in emergency situations, as British diplomatic staff have been temporarily withdrawn from the country due to the security environment.

Despite the withdrawal, the UK embassy continues to operate remotely, providing limited assistance to citizens.

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The United Kingdom has temporarily withdrawn its diplomatic personnel from Iran due to security concerns, the UK Foreign Office said on July 23.

“Due to the security situation, British personnel have been temporarily withdrawn from Iran,” the ministry said in a statement.

The evacuation comes amid escalating tensions following a conflict that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched military action against Iran.

In June, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at securing an immediate cessation of hostilities across all fronts, including in Lebanon. However, on the night of July 8, the United States resumed large-scale strikes on Iran, accusing Tehran of breaching the terms of the agreement, particularly provisions related to the Strait of Hormuz.

By Tamilla Hasanova