US embassies across several Middle Eastern countries have urged American citizens to consider leaving the region or be prepared to depart amid fears of a further escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Security alerts issued by the US missions in Jordan, Israel and Iraq warned Americans to remain vigilant and prepare for possible disruptions as tensions continue to rise.
“Americans in the region should consider departing, or be prepared to depart should there be escalation,” the embassies said in security messages posted on social media.
The advisory urged US citizens to monitor available flights, remain alert and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
It also warned travellers to expect flight cancellations, temporary airspace closures and other travel disruptions.
“Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” the alert stated.
The US Embassy in Jordan advised Americans to avoid visiting US military installations in the country, which have recently been targeted by Iranian missile attacks.
In Israel, the embassy urged citizens to identify the nearest bomb shelters and remain prepared in case of emergency.
The US Embassy in Jerusalem described Iran as unpredictable, citing recent attacks across the region.
“The Iranian regime is unpredictable, as seen by its recent decisions to attack areas in the region without warning or provocations, as well as to expand attacks to areas not previously targeted, such as Egypt,” the embassy said.
The warnings came days after a drone struck a US-owned gas vessel docked at an Egyptian port, sparking a fire. Egyptian authorities are investigating the incident but have not identified those responsible.
Meanwhile, Iran’s military accused Washington of escalating tensions in the region and warned that countries supporting the United States could become targets.
“Any country serving as defensive shield for criminal and aggressive America will be engulfed by the flames of war,” Iran’s military said.
The latest advisory follows renewed exchanges of missile and drone attacks between Iran and the United States after a brief lull in hostilities, although no strikes were reported overnight between Friday and Saturday.
The current conflict began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran. Tehran has since responded with missile and drone attacks targeting locations across the Middle East.