Warsaw, February 19 – In a stark warning amid escalating US-Iran tensions, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has issued an urgent call for all Polish nationals in Iran to evacuate without delay. Speaking to reporters in Jelonka near Warsaw, Tusk emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that armed conflict could erupt at any moment, making escape impossible within hours.
Reports from major outlets like CNN suggest the United States is poised for a potential strike on Iran this week, pending final approval from President Donald Trump. Tusk’s plea comes against this backdrop of heightened military posturing in the Middle East. ‘Please leave Iran immediately… and under no circumstances travel there,’ he urged, adding, ‘I’m not trying to scare anyone, but we all know what I’m talking about. There’s a risk of war.’
The Polish leader highlighted past experiences where such warnings were ignored, leading to dire consequences. He cautioned that evacuation could become unfeasible in ‘some or many hours.’ While the government hasn’t disclosed the number of Poles currently in Iran, the Foreign Ministry is expected to release detailed guidelines soon.
Military movements underscore the peril. The Wall Street Journal reports the US has deployed its largest air force presence in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq invasion, including squadrons of advanced F-35, F-22, F-15, and F-16 jets, along with command-and-control aircraft and air defense systems. Axios indicates any US action could be a multi-week operation targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure, potentially in coordination with Israel – far larger than recent limited actions elsewhere.
Negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program have stalled, with US officials expressing frustration over lack of progress. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s commitment to its rights under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty for peaceful nuclear technology, refusing any compromise.
Tusk’s directive reflects Poland’s vigilance in protecting its citizens amid a volatile regional landscape. As tensions simmer, the call serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly geopolitical flashpoints can endanger lives. Polish authorities are mobilizing support for those heeding the advice, urging calm but swift action.