As US military operations in Iran continue and Tehran responds with strikes directed at in-region US military bases and assets, the US Department of State has urged Americans to depart 14 countries in the region using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks.
- The State Department issued an immediate departure directive for US citizens and nationals in Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
- Commercial airlines are cancelling or postponing flights due to the ongoing conflicts.
- At the time of this reporting, the US embassies in Beirut, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia were closed due to threats and violence.
Americans who need State Department assistance arranging to depart via commercial means should call +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the US and Canada).
The State Department recommends that all US citizens and nationals traveling anywhere abroad enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Enrolling in STEP enables the Department of State to quickly and accurately contact travelers in the event of an emergency.
Worldwide Advisory: The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.