France Warns Citizens to Leave Iran

PARIS – The French Foreign Ministry has recommended that its citizens leave Iran and avoid traveling there, “for whatever reason.”

The ministry cited “the growing risk of military escalation in the region.”

The reminder comes after the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday.

Iran blamed Israel for the killing, although the Zionist regime has neither admitted nor denied its involvement.

The killing led to increased tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as Lebanon-based Hezbollah.

Reports in Western media suggest Iranian retaliation against Israel may be imminent.

“French citizens currently in Iran are advised to leave as soon as possible,” said a statement published on the ministry’s website on Friday (2/8/2024).

The statement also called on people to exercise “high alert” while in Iran, “stay away from all demonstrations” and regularly check embassy websites.

Paris has also ordered extra security measures at Jewish locations across France, citing the threat of “revenge” attacks over Haniyeh’s murder.

“The risk of such an action is real,” said French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin.