In a rare move, Washington has issued a high-level security warning for US citizens across 12 Middle Eastern nations, citing heightened risks of potential attacks targeting American interests.
US embassies across the region released synchronized security alerts advising citizens in Israel, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, and Iran to exercise extreme caution.
The notices warned of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and severe travel disruptions stemming from escalating military tensions linked to Iran and the Houthi movement in Yemen.
The advisory, covering all twelve countries, cautioned that hostilities could swiftly expand beyond their immediate theater and strongly recommended establishing advance contingency plans.
According to the statement, Iran and its affiliated groups might target US assets, affiliated sites, and American citizens worldwide, including corporate entities and foreign-based institutions.
Strikes in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the US Embassy highlighted a complex security environment, noting that Iranian-backed Houthis have carried out hostilities against the Kingdom.
These include strikes on civilian airports and vital infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties and major transport disruptions.
The advisory reiterated concerns regarding potential threats to American businesses and institutions globally.
The US Embassy in Qatar urged citizens to closely monitor official updates and local news, stay clear of demonstrations and large gatherings, and adhere to local security guidelines.
Qatar Airways announced the suspension of its flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam until October 24, alongside scaling back its daily services to Jeddah from seven flights to four.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
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