U.S. Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for 13 Countries Telling Americans to Depart Immediately

"Americans in those countries were encouraged to "depart now" via "available commercial transportation," according to Mora Namdar, the State Department's assistant secretary for consular affairs. Affected countries and territories included Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza."

"Iraq, Iran, and Lebanon were all listed under the highest Level 4 advisory, coming with a "do not travel" warning attached. The U.S. also increased its travel advisories for several area countries, classifying Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, the UAE, and Israel under its Level 3 warning, indicating Americans should "reconsider travel" there."

"Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures."

The U.S. State Department issued urgent evacuation orders for Americans in the Middle East and Gulf region following the outbreak of war in Iran. Affected countries include Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the UAE, Yemen, Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Travel advisories were elevated for multiple countries, with Iraq, Iran, and Lebanon classified as Level 4 "do not travel" zones. Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, the UAE, and Israel received Level 3 "reconsider travel" warnings. Saudi Arabia remained at Level 2 with specific border restrictions. The State Department issued a worldwide caution and recommended Americans enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for security alerts and emergency assistance.

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