Tusk urges Poles to leave Iran immediately, warns of imminent conflict

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk issued an urgent warning Thursday for all Polish citizens to leave Iran immediately and avoid any travel to the country, citing a "very real" risk of imminent military conflict. Speaking to reporters in Zielonka near Warsaw, Tusk stressed the gravity of the situation without providing specific details about the nature of the threat.

Window for Evacuation Narrowing

"I do not want to alarm anyone, but we all know what I am referring to. The possibility of a conflict is very real," Tusk said, urging Poles to take the warning seriously. He cautioned that the opportunity for safe departure could close rapidly. "In a few, a dozen, or several dozen hours, evacuation may no longer be possible." The government has not disclosed how many Polish citizens are currently in Iran, though the Foreign Ministry is expected to issue further guidance. Tusk noted that previous evacuation warnings had been ignored with serious consequences, adding, "We have bad experiences. Some people underestimate such appeals."

Regional Tensions and Historical Context

The prime minister's warning comes amid heightened speculation that Washington and Tel Aviv are preparing for another military confrontation with Iran, despite ongoing nuclear negotiations. Sources and media reports indicate the two allies are close to potential strikes, even as diplomatic channels remain open. Israel and Iran fought a 12-day war in June 2025, during which the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear sites. The memory of that conflict, along with continued tensions over Tehran's nuclear program and regional activities, has fueled expectations that further military action may be imminent.

International Alarm Signals

Tusk's public evacuation order represents one of the most direct official acknowledgments of impending conflict from a European leader. While other nations may be issuing quiet diplomatic warnings, Poland's open appeal suggests intelligence assessments pointing toward a near-term escalation. The warning places Polish citizens on notice that commercial departure options may soon be suspended, potentially leaving those who remain trapped in a combat zone. The development adds to mounting international anxiety as the standoff between Iran and the US-Israel alliance approaches what many fear could be another explosive confrontation.