Key Takeaways
- US embassies in 11 Middle Eastern countries urge citizens to be prepared for potential evacuation.
- Iran warns against cooperation with the US, threatening retaliation if any country serves as a defensive shield.
- 30 commercial vessels redirected by US naval blockade; tanker struck by unknown projectile off Oman.
United States embassies across the Middle East have issued security alerts urging American citizens to be prepared for potential evacuation due to heightened tensions in the region. The advisories, posted online on Saturday, stated that Americans should consider leaving or be ready to depart if there is an escalation.
The US Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, specifically mentioned that its mission remains on ‘ordered departure status,’ indicating that non-emergency personnel are still being relocated outside of the country.
In response to these warnings, American citizens were advised to check their flight details and follow safety advice from local authorities. The messages also warned about potential travel disruptions, including flight cancellations and periodic airspace closures.
The US Embassy in Jerusalem went a step further by advising Americans not to visit US military bases there, which have recently come under Iranian missile attacks. In Israel, citizens were urged to seek the location of the nearest bomb shelter.
Iran’s military central command head, Ali Abdollahi, warned that any country serving as a defensive shield for the United States would face severe consequences. He stated, 'Any country serving as a defensive shield for criminal and aggressive America will be engulfed by the flames of war.'
The Iranian regime has been unpredictable in its recent actions, including attacks on areas without prior warning or provocation. US President Donald Trump reiterated his threats to hit Iran ‘very hard,’ with reports suggesting he may consider renewed heavy attacks as soon as this weekend.
In a related development, the United States redirected 30 commercial vessels by naval blockade. The Central Command (Centcom) reported that one tanker was struck by an unknown projectile off Oman’s coast. Additionally, Kuwait destroyed hostile drones in its airspace.
The Houthis denied plans to impose fees on ships sailing through the Red Sea, but tensions remain high as both sides prepare for potential worst-case scenarios.
Americans in the region should consider departing, or be prepared to depart should there be escalation.
US Embassy
Any country serving as a defensive shield for criminal and aggressive America will be engulfed by the flames of war.
Ali Abdollahi, head of Iran’s military central command
