Israel-Iran conflict: US orders Americans to exit over 12 nations amid Iran retaliation

The United States has issued an urgent advisory asking American citizens to “depart now” from more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries amid escalating regional tensions following coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

In a video message posted on X, Marco Rubio urged Americans in the region to prioritise their safety. “To all American citizens in the Middle East: your safety and security is our number one priority,” he said, advising them to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and monitor updates from US missions.

Advisory covers multi ple Nations 

The advisory, updated on March 2 at 4 pm EST, applies to Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Lebanon, Iran, Oman, Iraq, Qatar, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar reiterated the call, asking Americans to use available commercial transportation and contact the State Department for assistance if needed.

Rising military tensions

Meanwhile, the United States Central Command confirmed that six US service members were killed in action following Iran’s retaliatory attacks. The escalation follows coordinated US and Israeli airstrikes across Iranian cities on February 28, reportedly targeting military command centres and missile sites.

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In response, Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones at US assets and allies across the region, widening the conflict. President Donald Trump said operations would continue to eliminate Iran’s missile capabilities and nuclear ambitions.