US embassies issue security alerts across 12 Middle East locations

The US government has issued security notices for 12 sites in the Middle East, in which it warned Americans of possible dangers from Iran or the Yemen’s Houthi rebels.

On Sunday, the alerts told US citizens to “exercise increased caution” and to get ready for possible cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions. “The alerts, dated Sunday, warned US citizens to “exercise increased caution” and to make preparations for potential cancellations, closures of airspace and travel disruptions, according to the Hindustan Times.

The alerts referenced the threat that the dispute would spread beyond the specific geographic locations, and warned that Iran and its proxies could target US assets, including businesses and organisations that are linked to the United States, the Times of Israel stated.

The alerts are for Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Iran, Qatar, Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Israel.

Further details were also provided regarding Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, such as on civilian airports and vital infrastructure, which have caused concern about regional security as well as air travel.

US embassies and consulates recommended that Americans listen to local events, refrain from demonstrations and large meetings, follow the instructions of the local authorities and check with the airlines directly.

The alerts coincided with escalating fighting between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-backed Houthis and fears of further attacks and a broader regional escalation.

Americans in the area were also advised to register with the US State Department’s Smart Traveller Enrolment Programme to obtain security updates.