Anthropic Disables Models for Foreign Nationals

Anthropic has disabled access to its two most capable models by any foreign national after a US export-control order barred such access. This move follows the broader trend of increased scrutiny and regulation around advanced artificial intelligence technologies in recent months ¹.

In a significant national security move, the US government directed AI company Anthropic to suspend access to its most powerful models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5, for all foreign nationals. The Commerce Department issued an export control directive citing concerns over potential risks, including reported jailbreak vulnerabilities in the newly released systems.

The restriction applies to foreign nationals both outside and inside the United States, including some of Anthropic's own employees. Unable to verify user nationalities in real time, Anthropic chose to abruptly disable the models for all customers worldwide just days after their launch.

This marks one of the most aggressive US actions yet to control access to cutting-edge commercial AI technology. The company received the order on June 12, 2026, and complied quickly, pulling the models offline.

Critics argue the move could hinder innovation and strain international alliances, while supporters see it as essential for protecting US technological edge.

Anthropic has not been provided with detailed public explanations of the specific security threats. The decision highlights growing tensions between rapid AI advancement and government efforts to mitigate risks. Users are now awaiting updates on when—or if—the models might return with revised access controls.