WASHINGTON – The United States has issued a security alert for its citizens across the Middle East amid fears of potential attacks by Iran and Yemen’s Houthi militia.
The Arab media reported that the US embassies in 12 countries, including Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Lebanon and Syria, have issued security alerts warning of possible threats to American citizens and interests in the region.
The advisory warned that Iran and groups backed by Tehran could target US citizens and American interests amid escalating regional tensions.
US citizens have been urged to remain alert to possible flight cancellations and airspace closures and to avoid travelling to areas of the Middle East experiencing heightened tensions.
The advisory comes amid growing security concerns across the region, with American diplomatic missions urging citizens to remain vigilant and monitor developments that could affect their safety and travel plans.
Oil tanker catches fire after hitting sea mine in Strait of Hormuz
An oil tanker caught fire following an explosion after striking a sea mine in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said.
According to the IRGC, the tanker struck a sea mine while navigating the strategic waterway, triggering an explosion that caused a fire onboard.
The Iranian force said no casualties had been reported so far as a result of the incident.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital international shipping route through which a significant share of the world’s oil supplies passes. Any disruption to maritime traffic in the waterway can raise concerns about energy supplies and shipping security.
Further details about the tanker, the extent of the damage and the circumstances surrounding the incident were not immediately available.