Travel to Iran after the recent conflict requires a careful overview of the current situation, including affected areas, travel advisories, flight operations, and safety considerations to help travelers make informed decisions.

Summary of the 12-Day Conflict and Current Ceasefire

The conflict commenced on June 13, 2025, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites. Iran retaliated with missile attacks, including one on a U.S. base in Qatar. The U.S. responded with airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. This escalation led to significant disruptions in regional air travel and heightened security concerns. As of June 24, a ceasefire has been in effect, but tensions persist, and the security situation remains unpredictable.

Areas Affected vs. Unaffected

Major tourist cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd have not been direct targets of the conflict. These areas remain relatively stable and continue to offer cultural and historical attractions. However, travelers should exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions, as the situation can change rapidly.

Airline Operations and Flight Disruptions

Several major airlines, including Qatar Airways and Emirates, have resumed flights to various Middle Eastern destinations following temporary suspensions due to security concerns. However, flights to and from Tehran remain suspended until at least July 5, 2025. Travelers are advised to check with airlines for the latest updates on flight availability and schedules.

Testimonials from Recent Travelers

Despite the recent conflict, some travelers have shared positive experiences in Iran. For instance, American solo traveler Donta’ Broussard visited Iran just days before the conflict escalated and described his experience as vibrant and culturally enriching. He highlighted the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people and encouraged others to consider visiting, emphasizing the importance of understanding and experiencing different cultures firsthand.

Mariah – American Solo Female Traveler

Mariah, who goes by the username @itsinmyownuniverse on TikTok, was a week into her travels in Iran when Israel launched a new wave of strikes, bombing Tehran and other areas in the country. Flights were canceled and borders closed, leaving her stranded in Tehran. She sought help at the Swiss Embassy since the U.S. has no embassy in Iran. Her local guide helped her stay safe, communicate, and find a way out. She traveled by car toward Armenia after Turkey’s border was closed. Crossing into Armenia took hours of questioning and tight funds. She eventually hitchhiked to the capital and flew out via Cyprus and London. Despite the fear, she says she felt protected by  the kindness of the locals. Mariah hopes travelers will see Iran’s real warmth beyond political tension. (people.com)

Diego Haro – Chilean Cyclist

Diego Haro, a 31-year-old Chilean cyclist from Punta Arenas, found himself caught in the middle of the Israel-Iran conflict while biking through Iran with his dog, Mirlo. Having traveled through 20 countries, Haro was in Iran’s northern Kurdistan region when Israeli warplanes began striking Iranian military and nuclear targets on June 13, initiating 12 days of warfare. Amid nightly explosions and increasing paranoia about foreign espionage in Iran, Haro feared for his and his dog’s safety. His journey to the capital Tehran was disrupted, and he attempted to flee the country. Israeli attacks reportedly killed over 1,000 in Iran and wounded thousands more, while at least 28 died in Israel. Haro described a harrowing encounter where he was detained and questioned overnight by unidentified gunmen, highlighting the heightened suspicion of foreigners during the conflict. Eventually, he was allowed to leave and biked over 400 kilometers to cross into Turkey, where he finally contacted his family after days of an Iranian-imposed internet shutdown. ( apnews.com)

Donta’ Broussard – American Solo Traveler

In early June 2025, Donta’ Broussard, an American solo traveler known as @thebeardedbackpacker, visited Iran just days before regional conflicts escalated. Despite concerns from loved ones and the U.S. State Department, Broussard embarked on his journey seeking authentic experiences. He found Iran to be vibrant, culturally rich, and full of welcoming locals. He visited significant sites like the Golestan Palace and Persepolis, highlighting the presence of strong, educated Iranian women. Broussard shared his positive encounter on social media, challenging negative stereotypes. His departure on June 4 preceded escalating tensions, which deeply affected his guide, Ali, who had to flee with tourists through active conflict zones. Broussard remains emotionally impacted and stays in contact to support those affected. (people.com)

Australian Tourists Stranded at the Border

Several Australians, including a 70-year-old woman named Rose and two brothers, found themselves stranded at the Astara border crossing between Iran and Azerbaijan. They had followed the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advice to exit via this route but encountered significant challenges. Rose, who traveled to Iran in May, awaited a border crossing code for six days in deteriorating health until she was hospitalized after running out of heart medication. Meanwhile, the brothers were detained by Iranian police on accusations of espionage and released after four hours. They reported a total absence of Australian officials at the border, while fellow nationals from other countries successfully crossed. The Australian government has acknowledged delays and limited on-ground capacity due to overwhelming demand and unstable internet. Over 3,000 Australians sought assistance since mid-June, yet logistical issues and poor coordination between DFAT’s offices in Ankara and Canberra hindered prompt support. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has communicated these concerns to the Azerbaijani authorities, who are facing processing backlogs. (thetimes.co.uk)

Safety Tips and Emergency Contacts

Stay Informed:

Continuously monitor local news and official government travel advisories to remain up-to-date with the changing security situation. It’s essential to stay connected with local authorities or your country’s embassy in Iran for any updates.

Emergency Contacts:

Ensure that you have the emergency contact numbers for police (110), ambulance (115), and fire services (125) on hand. Always be aware of the nearest medical facilities and have your embassy’s contact details saved for quick reference.

Avoid Public Gatherings:

While in Iran, it’s essential to avoid participating in or approaching protests, demonstrations, or large gatherings as these could escalate into conflict.

Local Customs:

Respect local customs and laws, including dress codes and social norms, to ensure a respectful experience throughout your visit. Familiarize yourself with cultural practices and expectations to avoid unintentional misunderstandings.

Travel Insurance:

It’s highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers unexpected events such as trip cancellations, health emergencies, or evacuations if needed. Make sure your insurance is valid and provides coverage specifically for the situation in Iran.

Travel Insurance

Official Travel Advisories

Many Western governments maintain strong travel warnings for Iran, often advising against all travel due to political tensions and the risk of arbitrary detention. For example:

• United States: Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory citing risks of terrorism, civil unrest, and the potential detention of U.S. citizens. (travel.state.gov)

• Australia: Advises against all travel, highlighting regional instability and similar detention concerns. (smartraveller.gov.au)

• Canada: Also recommends avoiding all travel due to ongoing tensions and diplomatic issues. (travel.gc.ca)

• United Kingdom: Urges increased caution, noting regional tensions and possible flight disruptions. (gov.uk)

However, it’s important to remember that these advisories have been in place for many years and are shaped by broader political relations between Iran and the West. In practice, countless travelers continue to share diaries, videos, and testimonials describing Iran as welcoming, safe in major cities, and culturally enriching, with local people going about daily life as normal.

As always, travelers should weigh official advice alongside real experiences and make informed decisions based on up-to-date information, local conditions, and personal comfort levels.

Is It Safe to Travel to Iran? A Comprehensive Guide for 2026

Signs of Stability and Reassurance

Resumption of Flights – After a 20-day suspension of international flights, Iran has now authorized the resumption of air traffic. On July 4, Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) received its first international flight from Flydubai, marking what the Civil Aviation Organization of Iran called “a new chapter of stability” in the country’s aviation sector. (AP News) – As of July 4, most major airports—both domestic and international—have resumed operations, with flights currently operating between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Only Isfahan and Tabriz airports remain temporarily inactive due to infrastructure maintenance. – International flights from Mashhad have also restarted, with routes now available to Beijing, Istanbul, Dubai, Delhi, Shanghai, Kabul, Karachi, and more. Airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Flydubai, and Air Arabia have resumed service.

Reopening of the Swiss Embassy in Tehran

On July 6, the Swiss Embassy in Tehran officially reopened after being closed during the height of regional tensions. Ambassador Nadine Olivieri Lozano, along with a small team, re-entered Iran via Azerbaijan. The decision to reopen the embassy was taken after a comprehensive risk analysis and in consultation with Iran and the United States, for which Switzerland represents Iran’s interests as a protecting power. The current situation allows for a gradual resumption of embassy operations on site. (Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs) – This reopening followed a comprehensive risk assessment and consultations with both the Iranian and U.S. governments. Switzerland represents U.S. interests in Iran, and its decision to reopen is a strong diplomatic signal indicating a return to normalcy and a renewed focus on dialogue. – While full consular services (such as visa issuance) have not yet resumed, the physical presence of the ambassador and an active office provides a reassuring signal to travelers and international observers.

New Visa Rules for Traveling to Iran (Effective August 2025)

Since the time of writing this travel advisory, Iran’s visa regulations have undergone major changes in response to the regional instability caused by the Iran–Israel conflict in mid-2025. As of August/ September 2025, the MFA requires all visa applicants from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada must enter Iran as part of a pre-arranged guided tour organized by a licensed travel agency. Independent travel is no longer permitted.

The updated visa process now requires several new documents, including a Resume File (with details such as travel history, education, professional background, and social media profiles), a signed tour contract, and a fixed itinerary with pre-approved accommodations. Visa processing time remains 2–3 weeks, but travelers are only asked to make payment after visa approval, and no fees are charged if the visa is denied. These changes aim to enhance safety, improve organization, and support the recovery of Iran’s tourism sector. For full details and how we can support you through the new process, please read our in-depth guide:

New Iran Visa Regulations and Policies – September 2025 Update

Iran–Europe Diplomatic Efforts and Their Impact on Travel- September 2025

Amid fallout from the conflict and growing concern over Iran’s nuclear program, Britain, France, and Germany (the E3) triggered the UN’s “snapback” sanctions mechanism on August 28, 2025, starting a 30-day countdown during which sanctions would automatically return unless Iran complied. In response, Iran has held a series of diplomatic meetings in Geneva, Vienna, and Istanbul, warning that reimposing sanctions would have irreversible consequences for Europe’s mediating role. While Tehran has agreed to resume IAEA nuclear inspections under certain conditions, officials insist that any snapback move would void those commitments. (reuters.com)

For travelers, these negotiations are significant because they signal a shift from military confrontation to diplomatic engagement, reducing the immediate risk of further strikes. However, the possibility of renewed sanctions could mean tighter financial restrictions, higher travel costs, and stricter visa controls in the coming months. Visitors are therefore advised to monitor how these talks unfold, as they may directly affect the ease and safety of traveling to Iran.

Conclusion

While Iran’s major tourist cities remain relatively unaffected by the recent conflict, the overall security situation can still be unpredictable. Travelers should exercise caution, stay informed, and follow official travel advisories when planning a trip to Iran. For those already in the country, it’s wise to stay in contact with local authorities and your country’s embassy or consulate for up-to-date guidance and assistance.

There are, however, encouraging signs of stability and reassurance: Resumption of Flights and reopening of the Swiss Embassy in Tehran. While full consular services have yet to resume, the embassy’s active presence provides an added layer of reassurance to travelers and the international community alike.

If you have specific concerns or need assistance planning your trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out for more detailed, up-to-date information. I’m always here to help you travel with confidence.

 

The 12-Day Conflict in Iran	The 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel started in June 2025. The clashes involved airstrikes and missile attacks, causing significant damage in the region. A ceasefire was declared on June 24, 2025.
Areas Affected vs. Unaffected	Major tourist cities in Iran, such as Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd, were not directly affected by the conflict and remain safe for tourists.
Official Travel Advisories	Many countries, including the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and Australia, have advised their citizens to avoid traveling to Iran due to security concerns.
Testimonials from Recent Travelers	Travelers share both positive and negative experiences. Some highlight the hospitality of Iranians, while others report concerns over security risks and disruptions during the conflict.
Safety Tips and Emergency Contacts	Travelers are advised to stay informed, register with their embassy, respect local customs, avoid public gatherings, and have comprehensive travel insurance. Emergency contact numbers for police and medical services are provided.
Conclusion	While Iran remains a viable destination, the overall security situation is unstable. Travelers should proceed with caution, stay updated on advisories, and avoid unnecessary risks.