WASHINGTON, March 3, (V7N) - The United States has issued a stern warning for American citizens to leave the Middle East due to escalating safety concerns following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran over the weekend.

On Monday, the U.S. State Department, via Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar, urged Americans to “DEPART NOW” from 14 countries across the region, citing "serious safety risks." The department advised U.S. citizens to use commercial transportation, despite disruptions to flights in many parts of the Middle East. The advisory applies to several countries, including Egypt, the Gulf Arab states, Israel, the Palestinian territories, and others directly impacted by the ongoing conflict.

Countries Affected and Urged for Departure The U.S. advisory includes:

Egypt: Despite tense relations with Iran, Egypt has seen little direct impact so far but remains on high alert.

Gulf States: Countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain, which have hosted U.S. troops, have been targeted by Iranian missile and drone strikes in retaliation.

Israel and Palestinian Territories: These regions have experienced direct conflict as part of the ongoing U.S.-Israel war against Iran.

Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan: These nations are caught in the wider regional fallout of the attacks.


The United States has not organized a formal evacuation but has emphasized the safety risks posed to its citizens in the region. The department’s call for departure comes amid rising tensions and the ongoing military retaliation from Iran.

Flight Disruptions Commercial flights in and out of the Middle East have been heavily disrupted by the conflict, making travel more difficult for Americans attempting to follow the advisory. The U.S. has not yet coordinated evacuation operations, leaving citizens to rely on commercial means of transportation to exit the affected countries.

Global Impact of the Conflict The U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran have triggered a broader regional conflict, with Iran retaliating against countries that host U.S. military forces. This has significantly heightened tensions in the region, affecting security, aviation, and diplomatic relations.

The advisory highlights the precariousness of the situation, urging U.S. citizens to take immediate action for their safety as the conflict shows no signs of de-escalating.

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