By Kanyshai Butun
ISTANBUL (AA) - The Russian Embassy in Tehran on Saturday urged its citizens to leave Iran following the start of a joint US-Israeli military operation.
In a statement on Telegram, the diplomatic mission called on Russian citizens "to remain vigilant, closely monitor official announcements and recommendations from the Embassy and Iranian authorities, and refrain from being near military and government facilities."
It also recommended Russian citizens to refrain from traveling to Iran until further notice.
“We also strongly recommend that Russian citizens and compatriots currently in Iran leave the country if possible,” the statement added.
Israel and US announced early Saturday a joint operation against Iran, citing "threats" posed by the "Iranian regime."
The attacks come as talks between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program had been ongoing under Oman’s mediation. A new round of talks in Geneva ended on Thursday.
Last June, the US struck three Iranian nuclear sites during the 12-day Israel-Iran war.