The United States Department of State has released updated security and travel guidance for American citizens across the Middle East and parts of South Asia, following military strikes involving the United States and Israel that hit targets in Iran, including the capital, Tehran.
The advisory, published by the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, places 13 countries under a three-tier warning system and urges Americans already in the region to remain vigilant, restrict movement, or depart where commercial options are available.
“The most important priority is the safety of U.S. citizens overseas,” the State Department said, noting that the guidance is intended to help Americans “make informed international travel decisions during a period of heightened regional tension.”
The updated alerts follow US-Israeli strike operations announced by former US President Donald Trump, who said the action was aimed at “eliminating imminent threats” linked to Iran’s missile development and military infrastructure.
“A short time ago, the United States began major combat operations designed to destroy Iran’s missile production and naval capabilities,” Trump said, describing the strikes as the opening phase of a broader military campaign.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran have been building for months, but the latest operation marked a sharp escalation.
In a dramatic twist, Trump also claimed that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed during the strikes. Iranian state media later confirmed Khamenei’s death, though it did not directly comment on reports that his residence had been targeted.
Iran subsequently declared 40 days of national mourning and announced a seven-day public holiday.
According to a review of the International Travel advisory platform, the State Department classified affected countries as follows:
Level 4: Do Not Travel
Iran – No U.S. Embassy; Americans advised to shelter in place
Iraq – Exercise extreme caution; limit movement and shelter as needed
Lebanon – Americans urged to depart immediately via commercial means
Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Bahrain – Shelter in place
Israel – Shelter in place
Kuwait – Shelter in place
Pakistan – Exercise caution; avoid large gatherings (some regions at Level 4)
Qatar – Shelter in place
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Egypt – Heightened vigilance advised
Jordan – Shelter in place; avoid the U.S. Embassy area
Oman – Shelter in place in Duqm and within 100km of Salalah
Saudi Arabia – Shelter in place in Dhahran
United Arab Emirates – Shelter in place
The State Department also directed all non-essential American personnel in several countries — including Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, Jordan and Israel — to remain indoors after reports of explosions and smoke rising over Tehran.
“Americans needing consular assistance should contact U.S. authorities using the 24/7 emergency numbers listed in the advisory,” the department said.
Officials stressed that the measures form part of a broader effort to protect U.S. nationals abroad as military and political tensions across the region remain volatile.
