Washington has instructed its nationals in a wide stretch of the Middle East to arrange their departure without delay, warning of escalating dangers tied to the region’s deteriorating security environment.
In a notice released March 2, the US Department of State called on Americans in Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen to leave “now via commercial means.” The directive cited “serious safety risks” as the basis for the appeal.
The guidance follows a surge in military activity and cross-border exchanges, particularly involving Iran and its regional rivals. Several governments in the Gulf and neighboring areas have heightened their security posture in response, while disruptions to airspace and reports of security incidents have intensified unease about travel conditions.
Officials indicated that individuals who need help coordinating their exit may reach out to the department’s round-the-clock emergency services, whether calling from overseas or from within the United States and Canada.
The advisory highlights mounting fears that the current flare-up could expand further, with potential consequences for civilian mobility and commercial air travel across the region.
