A sign indicating the location of the American embassy in Jerusalem. (Credit: AFP)
The U.S. embassies in Jerusalem, Baghdad and Amman issued security alerts Saturday urging American citizens to exercise increased vigilance as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to rise. The embassies also advised Americans to leave or be prepared to leave in the event of further escalation.
The U.S. Embassy in Beirut had not issued a security alert as of Saturday.
’’Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex, with the potential for unforeseen escalation. Americans in the Middle East should remain cautious, exercise increased vigilance, and be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures and potential travel disruptions,’’ the U.S. diplomatic missions in Israel, Iraq and Jordan said.
’’Airlines in the region have postponed resuming previous flight schedules, while others have canceled certain routes. Americans in the region should consider leaving or be prepared to leave in case of escalation,’’ the statements added.
President Donald Trump threatened Friday to strike Iran ‘’very hard’’ after U.S. media reported that Washington was considering a new wave of large-scale airstrikes this weekend, possibly with Israeli participation, targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure.
On Wednesday, Iran targeted U.S. military bases in Jordan, prompting U.S.-Saudi strikes on Iran-aligned armed groups in Iraq, followed by a major wave of U.S. airstrikes on Iran.
