SRINAGAR: US embassies across several Middle Eastern countries on Saturday advised American citizens to avoid non-essential travel, exercise heightened vigilance and be prepared for possible departures, citing the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran.
In a security alert, the US Embassy in Jordan warned that Americans in the region should be prepared for “flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions.”
“Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” the embassy said.
The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia issued a similar advisory, urging American citizens in the region to remain alert and prepare for possible disruptions to air travel.
The US Embassy in Egypt also cautioned US citizens against unnecessary travel through the region.
“Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region. Those who do travel to or from the region should monitor information about airport and airline operations,” the embassy said.
Similar security alerts were also posted by US diplomatic missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad.
The advisories came amid reports that the administration of US President Donald Trump is considering a fresh round of military action against Iran.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump has approved preparations for a new military campaign and warned during a televised Cabinet meeting at Camp David that the United States would be “hitting them very hard” if Iran failed to change course.
“Iran will get to a point where they can’t take it anymore,” Trump said, according to The Wall Street Journal, adding that Tehran had repeatedly broken its commitments during negotiations.
Separately, CBS News, citing multiple sources, reported that the United States and Israel were discussing coordinated strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, including power plants and oil refineries, with operations potentially beginning this weekend.
However, CBS News reported that Trump had not yet given final approval for the proposed strikes.
