US embassies in Jerusalem and other Middle Eastern capitals call on citizens in the Middle East to avoid travel to the Middle East and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran. “Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation,” embassies from Cairo eastward say in identical messages published on their respective websites.
“The Iranian regime is unpredictable, as seen by its recent decisions to attack areas in the region without warning or provocations as well as to expand attacks to areas not previously targeted (such as Egypt),” the messages say. “Americans in the region should consider departing, or be prepared to depart should there be escalation,” say the messages, noting that travel may be disrupted due to the tension.
“Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region,” the messages add. “Those who do travel to or from the region should monitor information about airport and airline operations.” The embassies remain open “for routine American citizens and visa services,” they say. (Source)
