United States Department of State has directed all American personnel and citizens in five Middle East countries to remain indoors following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets.
The emergency advisory affects Americans living in Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Jordan and Israel, among others, after explosions and heavy smoke were reported in parts of Tehran, Iran’s capital.
In a security alert, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem said Israeli authorities had closed the country’s airspace to civilian flights, leading to the cancellation of all commercial departures from Ben Gurion Airport.
The embassy warned that the security situation remains volatile, with possible rocket fire, missile attacks and drone intrusions occurring without warning.
Americans in the affected countries were advised to find secure shelter, monitor local media, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and maintain contact with family members.
They were also urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for real-time updates.
In Doha, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, U.S. diplomatic missions described the development as “regional hostilities” and recommended that citizens stock up on food, water and medications while remaining indoors until further notice.
Similar advisories were issued in Manama and Amman, with emergency contact numbers provided for those in immediate danger.
The precautionary measures followed what U.S. President Donald Trump described as major combat operations targeting Iran’s missile infrastructure. In a video statement, Trump said the action was necessary to counter imminent threats, adding that the U.S. military would destroy Iran’s missile capabilities.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, described the operation as a preventive strike.
Iranian state media, reported that President Masoud Pezeshkian was safe, while the semi-official Fars News Agency confirmed multiple missile impacts in districts of Tehran.
The State Department said the situation remains fluid and advised Americans across the region to stay vigilant, regularly check official updates and be prepared to adjust travel or living arrangements as developments unfold.
