US urges citizens to leave Middle East immediately

The U.S. Department of State, through its Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, has issued an urgent security alert for U.S. citizens currently in Middle Eastern countries.

The alert applies to Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

The advisory strongly urges Americans to “depart now” from several countries in the region using available commercial flights due to serious and escalating security risks amid ongoing conflicts.

The State Department highlighted that safe departure options may be limited, and delays could reduce available evacuation routes if the situation deteriorates further.

U.S. citizens are also advised to monitor official updates, register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and maintain contact with the nearest embassies or consulates for additional information and assistance.

The @SecRubio @StateDept urges Americans to DEPART NOW from the countries below using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks. Americans who need State Department assistance arranging to depart via commercial means, CALL US 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from… pic.twitter.com/vdplAik2Sq

— Assistant Secretary Mora Namdar (@AsstSecStateCA) March 2, 2026