The United States Department of State has issued an urgent advisory asking American nationals across several Middle East countries to “DEPART NOW” using available commercial transportation due to escalating security risks.
The warning follows heightened tensions after a reported joint US-Israel military operation against Iran and subsequent retaliatory strikes across the region.
Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar announced the advisory, stating that Secretary of State Marco Rubio is urging US citizens to leave the listed countries immediately.
Full List of Countries Under ‘Depart Now’ Advisory
American nationals have been advised to leave the following countries:
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Bahrain
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Egypt
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Iran
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Iraq
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Israel
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Palestine (Gaza and the occupied West Bank)
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Jordan
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Kuwait
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Lebanon
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Oman
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Qatar
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Saudi Arabia
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Syria
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United Arab Emirates
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Yemen
The State Department has advised Americans to use commercial transportation where available and avoid unnecessary travel within these regions.
Embassy Attacks Trigger Heightened Alert
The advisory comes after reported drone attacks targeted US diplomatic facilities in the region.
Smoke was seen rising near the US Embassy in Kuwait City on Monday, prompting officials to instruct American citizens to shelter in place and avoid visiting embassy premises.
Saudi defence officials also confirmed that a drone strike on the US Embassy in Riyadh caused limited damage and a small fire.
The State Department had already issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Iran, Iraq and Lebanon prior to the broader evacuation call.
Background: Escalating US-Iran Conflict
Tensions intensified after the United States and Israel announced a joint military operation against Iran on Saturday. Reports indicate that an Israeli strike in Tehran killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Following the incident, Iran reportedly launched retaliatory strikes targeting Israel and US military installations across the Middle East. Gulf nations including Qatar, Iraq, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been placed on heightened security alert.
The situation remains fluid, with governments closely monitoring developments.
Emergency Contact Information for Americans
US citizens requiring assistance with departure arrangements may contact:
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+1-202-501-4444 (from abroad)
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+1-888-407-4747 (from the US and Canada)
The State Department has urged Americans in affected regions to closely follow official advisories and local security instructions.
