UK Closes British Embassy in Tehran, Staff Evacuated

On 14 January 2026 British officials announced the temporary closure of the British embassy in Tehran, Iran, and the urgent evacuation of all staff. The decision followed days of escalating protests outside the compound, triggered by recent diplomatic tensions between the UK and Iran. Iranian police were deployed to guard the embassy grounds while the British mission evacuated its personnel through a coordinated flight to the UAE. The closure is part of a broader effort to safeguard embassy staff amid reports of increased hostility toward foreigners. The UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office urged citizens in Iran to remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings. The incident underscores the fragile security situation in Tehran.