US embassies in various Middle Eastern capitals have warned American citizens to consider leaving the region due to the potential for 'unforeseen escalation' in the ongoing conflict. The embassies in Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates issued the alert following US President Donald Trump's threat to hit Iran'very hard'. The warning comes amid a backdrop of ongoing hostilities between Iran and the United States, which have been at war since February 28.
Escalating Tensions and Security Measures
The security alert advises Americans in the region to exercise caution, be vigilant, and prepare for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. Specific instructions include avoiding military bases in Jordan, which have been targeted by Iranian missiles, and locating the nearest bomb shelter in Israel. The US Embassy in Beirut remains on 'ordered departure status', with family members and non-essential personnel already relocated outside of Lebanon.
Regional Impact and Military Statements
Iran's military has accused Washington of 'escalating tensions', with Ali Abdollahi, head of Iran's military central command, warning that any country supporting the US will face 'the flames of war'. Meanwhile, Mohammad Mokhber, adviser to Iran's supreme leader, cautioned against attacks on Iranian infrastructure, stating that such actions would 'awaken the fault lines' of US hegemonic history.
Maritime and Energy Concerns
The conflict has also impacted maritime trade, with Iran effectively controlling navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and requiring vessels to obtain permission and pay transit fees. Traffic through the strait has dropped sharply, according to maritime trade tracking firm Kpler. Additionally, a drone strike on a US-owned gas vessel in an Egyptian port and an 'unknown projectile' hitting a tanker off the coast of Oman highlight the ongoing threats to regional shipping lanes.
