US issues security alerts across 12 Middle East nations

The United States has issued security alerts across 12 locations in the Middle East, warning Americans of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions amid a complex regional security environment.

The alerts, dated 18 October, cover Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Iran, Qatar, Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen and Israel/Jerusalem, according to the notices shared. 

US diplomatic missions have urged Americans in the region to exercise heightened vigilance, monitor airline operations and prepare for sudden changes to travel plans.

The warnings cite the potential for hostilities to escalate beyond their immediate area and caution that Iran and groups supportive of Tehran may target US interests overseas, including businesses and institutions associated with the United States.

The notices also refer to attacks by Iran-supported Houthi forces against Saudi Arabia, including strikes on civilian airports and critical infrastructure that have caused civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions.