WW3 fears rise as British embassy in Iran closes as US considers motion
Amid escalating unrest in Iran, violent crackdowns on protesters, and growing international tensions, including threats of US intervention, the British Embassy in Tehran has been temporarily closed
Policemen protect the British Embassy during a protest by hardline supporters of the Iranian government, in Tehran(Image: AP)
The British Embassy in Tehran has been shut down for the time being, according to a report by Politico on Wednesday (January 14). Politico quoted a government spokesperson who stated: “We have temporarily closed the British Embassy in Tehran, this will now operate remotely.
“Foreign Office travel advice has now been updated to reflect this consular change.” A British official explained that the ambassador and all consular staff were evacuated following a security assessment and a decision to put staff safety first, Reuters reported.
This action takes place as Iran’s leadership works to suppress the most significant domestic unrest the Islamic Republic has encountered, while US President Donald Trump has issued threats to intervene.
Both Britain and the United States have pulled some personnel from bases in the Middle East after a senior Iranian official revealed that Tehran had warned neighboring countries of potential strikes on American bases if Washington were to launch an attack.
Iran is currently facing its most significant domestic protests to date, which began in late December 2025 following a spike in food prices.
The Iranian government has responded with a violent crackdown, resulting in thousands of deaths and a nationwide internet blackout.
Moreover, this comes as on January 10, a protester in London climbed the balcony of the Iranian Embassy and tore down its flag, leading Tehran to twice summon the British ambassador in protest.
And today, pro-regime Basij militia members retaliated by protesting outside the British Embassy in Tehran, burning US and Israeli flags.
Trump has repeatedly threatened “very strong action” and military intervention to support Iranian protesters.
New reports from today have also suggested US air strikes could be imminent, possibly occurring within 24 hours.
As a consequence of these escalations, European nations including Italy and Spain have urged their citizens to leave Iran immediately due to the deteriorating security environment.
The European Parliament has also banned all Iranian diplomatic staff from its premises.
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