DUBAI — The United States on Tuesday evacuated diplomats and closed some embassies across the Middle East as the war with Iran escalates, with President Trump suggesting the conflict could become protracted.
The State Department had previously ordered the evacuation of diplomatic missions in several Middle Eastern countries, and now announced it will add Kuwait, Qatar and Iraq to the list.
The U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday urged Americans to avoid the premises after the Saudi Ministry of Defense said the diplomatic compound had been attacked by two drones.
The mission canceled routine and emergency consular appointments and advised Americans in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran to evacuate to designated locations.
The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait announced in a social media post Tuesday that it would be closed until further notice and directed its staff and U.S. residents to shelter indoors amid the continuing threat of missile and drone activity.
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The US Embassy in Riyadh was targeted by two drones. Minor damage has been reported
The embassy warned people to stay away from the premises and advised residents to stay indoors, avoid windows and heed official warnings. This follows Monday’s attack on the embassy by Iran.
Jordan’s State Department said Tuesday it had evacuated its huge embassy in Amman following threats. It warned that missiles, rockets and drones could enter Jordanian airspace as the conflict unfolds. Americans were encouraged to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate in the event of sirens or official warnings.
The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain also suspended normal operations. A security notice there warned that civilian locations could be at risk as tensions in the region escalate and urged individuals to shelter in place and remain vigilant.
In Qatar, home to a major U.S. military installation in Al Udeid, the U.S. embassy issued similar guidance, asking Americans to shelter in place and prepare for potential disruption. The alert emphasizes staying safe indoors and keeping essential items on hand.
In Israel, where hostilities are directly related to the broader conflict with Iran, the U.S. Embassy advised Americans to review their personal security plans. He noted that the current situation may limit the ability to support departures, and called on the public to strictly follow official guidance.
The U.S. State Department has expanded its regional advisory beyond individual country alerts, urging Americans living in several Middle Eastern countries to consider leaving the country due to the deteriorating security environment. — Agency
