An intense conflict has erupted in the Middle East after the United States and Israel carried out major military strikes on Iran, prompting widespread retaliation by Tehran and allied groups across the region. The violence has disrupted aviation and regional security, leading to numerous flight cancellations and closed airspace across the Gulf. In response, the US State Department has urged American citizens to depart the Middle East immediately amid escalating danger. The advisory covers more than a dozen countries, including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan and Yemen, where safety risks from missile and drone attacks are high. Washington has also ordered non-emergency personnel and family members out of Bahrain, Jordan and other posts, and advised U.S. citizens to seek shelter or leave while commercial flights remain available.

Source: The Star March 03, 2026 10:32 UTC