US urges its citizens in Middle East to be ready to leave in case of escalation in region
The US State Department has issued a security alert advising American citizens in the Middle East to prepare for potential evacuation due to rising regional tensions. Reports suggest the US may be planning military strikes against Iranian infrastructure, leading to concerns over travel disruptions and safety.
Why it matters
The alert highlights a significant escalation in geopolitical instability, signaling potential military conflict that could impact regional safety and global energy markets.
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock Image caption, US embassies across the Middle East - including the mission in Iraq - reposted the security alert for American nationals, warning of "unexpected escalation"
The US government has urged Americans across the Middle East to be alert and ready to leave "should there be escalation" in the region.
It comes amid US media reports that President Donald Trump may be planning new strikes on Iran over the weekend.
In its alert, the State Department said: "US diplomatic facilities, including outside the Middle East, have been targeted. Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other US interests overseas or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world."
Tehran earlier accused the US of escalating tensions, saying any regional state co-operating with Washington would be "engulfed by the flames of war".
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