In a fresh travel advisory issued the United States has warned Americans in several Middle East countries of a possible rapid escalation. Citizens are to exercise “heightened vigilance” amid Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and remain prepared for possible escalation, airspace closures, flight cancellations, and other travel disruptions.
The US State Department, in its advisory, cautioned Americans in and traveling to Iraq, Iran, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. The alerts, dated September 19, also warned that Iran and Tehran-backed groups could target US interests, businesses, and institutions overseas. “Due to tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation. Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance and be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions,” the advisory said.
US warns of flight cancellations and airspace closures
Iranian-backed Houthis have been involved in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including missile and drone attacks on civilian airports. The military conflict could escalate rapidly, resulting in flight cancellations, airspace closures, and other disruptions, and potentially affecting Americans in the Middle East. They 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 advisory added.
Potential attacks on US interests, the State Department says
For Saudi Arabia, the U.S. State Department has maintained a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory, citing the risk of Iranian attacks targeting American interests, exit bans, armed conflict, and local laws concerning social media activity. “Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world, including U.S. businesses and other institutions,” the alerts said.
Special authorisation required to travel to Saudi cities
The Department also cautioned against falling debris from intercepted projectiles. US government employees in Riyadh face additional restrictions, including a ban on travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border. Special authorisation is needed to travel to Jizan, Najran, Asir, and Qatif. Yemen remains under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. This comes after Yemen-backed Houthis launched a missile attack towards Saudi Arabia and targeted civil infrastructure.
