US urges citizens to leave parts of Middle East as Iran tensions escalate; Trump warns of more strikes
PTC Web Desk: The United States has issued fresh security alerts for its citizens in several West Asian countries, urging them to consider leaving the region or remain prepared to depart if the security situation worsens.
The advisories were issued by US embassies in Jordan, Israel and Iraq amid growing concerns that the conflict involving Iran could escalate further.
According to the security alert, American citizens currently in the region should remain vigilant, monitor flight schedules closely and be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions.
The warning comes as exchanges of fire involving Iran resumed this week after a brief pause, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
Security messages shared by the US diplomatic missions advised Americans to exercise heightened caution and closely follow instructions issued by local authorities.
The embassies also encouraged citizens to make travel plans in advance in case the security situation deteriorates further.
US President Donald Trump indicated that Washington could continue military operations against Iran if required.
Speaking to reporters during a meeting with members of his Cabinet at Camp David, Trump said the United States wanted to achieve its objectives and warned that Iran could face further military strikes.
Iran's military responded sharply, accusing the United States of increasing tensions across West Asia. Ali Abdollahi, who heads Iran's military central command, warned that any country assisting the United States could become part of the conflict.
Also Read | J&K terror attack: Two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh killed in Kulgam terror attack
Kuwait's military said it responded to drone attacks targeting several important facilities in the country. Military spokesperson Maj Gen Saud Abdulaziz Al-Otaibi said the drones struck a number of strategic locations, including a government facility in northern Kuwait.
Authorities confirmed that no casualties were reported.
Maritime security concerns have also intensified near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest oil shipping routes.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported two separate incidents involving commercial tankers near the Omani ports of Lima and Khasab.
In one case, a tanker was reportedly hit by an unidentified projectile that damaged its engine room, leaving the vessel unable to manoeuvre. No injuries or oil spill were reported.
In another incident, the crew of a nearby tanker reported witnessing an explosion and a large splash close to their vessel.
The incidents are being closely monitored due to the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for global energy supplies.
Meanwhile, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have announced a blockade around the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, another crucial international shipping lane.
According to reports, the blockade has already forced several Saudi vessels to alter their routes and sail around the Cape of Good Hope in Africa instead of using the Red Sea corridor.
The disruption is expected to increase shipping costs and raise concerns over global trade if tensions continue to escalate.
- With inputs from agencies
