The US State Department has warned American citizens in 16 countries and regions to leave immediately by commercial means, citing “serious security risks” amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The advisory covers Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a 24/7 crisis center has been activated to provide real-time updates. He urged Americans in high-risk areas to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts and assistance.