“A menacing NATO F-16 appeared and closed in on the patriarch’s aircraft. But you won’t scare the patriarch — that’s for sure,” he said, according to a statement on the Russian Orthodox Church’s website.

U.S. citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason and should depart Iran immediately if they are there. U.S. citizens who are unable to depart Iran should be prepared to shelter in place for extended periods. U.S. citizens in Iran face serious, increasing dangers due to rising regional tensions. The U.S. government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for United States interests in Iran.

As of Saturday, June 14, Iran airspace remains closed. U.S. citizens seeking to depart Iran by air should confirm travel plans with their airlines.