US embassies tell Americans in Middle East to be ready to evacuate over Iran
The United States urges citizens to reconsider their Middle East travel plans (photo: Getty Images)
US embassies in Israel and other Middle Eastern countries are urging American citizens to avoid traveling to the region and to be prepared to leave because of the potential for an unforeseen escalation in the conflict with Iran, The Times of Israel says.
"Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation," the embassies said in a statement.
The statement stressed that the Iranian regime is unpredictable, citing its recent decisions to attack countries across the Middle East without warning, as well as expanding its strikes to countries that Tehran had not previously targeted, with Egypt given as an example.
In light of these developments, US embassies urged American citizens who are in the region or planning to travel there to reconsider their plans.
"Americans in the region should consider departing, or be prepared to depart should there be escalation. Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region," the statements said.
The embassies also advised Americans who still plan to travel to the Middle East to closely monitor updates from airports and airlines.
In summary, the embassies emphasized that they remain open to assist US citizens and continue to provide consular and visa services.
Background
Media reports that the United States and Israel are planning one of the largest bombing campaigns targeting Iran's energy infrastructure.
Citing anonymous sources, the reports claim the operation could begin as early as this weekend and continue for several days. The stated objective is to force Iran to capitulate.
However, it remains unclear whether the operation will actually take place. According to CBS News, no final decision has been made, while The Wall Street Journal reported that President Donald Trump has already given the order to launch the strikes.
