Washington DC: The United States has issued a security alert urging Americans across the Middle East to remain vigilant amid escalating regional tensions and speculation over possible US military strikes on Iran. The advisory warned of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions as early voting for the November 2026 US midterm elections begins.
In an alert issued Oct. 18, the US Embassy in Amman cautioned that hostilities involving Iran-backed groups could spread beyond their immediate areas of operation. It urged Americans travelling to or from the region to monitor airport and airline updates and prepare contingency plans for possible disruptions.
The embassy also warned that Iran and groups aligned with Tehran could target US interests abroad, including American citizens, businesses and institutions.
The advisory comes as the US military has reportedly developed additional strike options against Iran, including the possible deployment of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), commonly known as the “mother of all bombs,” CNN reported, citing US officials familiar with military planning.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran have intensified following US President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s upcoming elections. Trump warned that the US and its allies would “soon finish the job” if Iran did not change course.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, meanwhile, warned that Tehran remained prepared for further escalation and accused Netanyahu of pushing Washington toward another war.
Regional security concerns have also mounted following reported missile and unmanned aerial vehicle attacks targeting airports in Saudi Arabia. Operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh remained suspended, while airports in Jeddah and Dammam continued operating amid delays and cancellations.
The US mission in Saudi Arabia has restricted government employees’ travel to airports, requiring special authorization following the attacks. Authorities have also warned Americans against filming or sharing images of missile interceptions, drone activity and impact sites, citing potential legal consequences.
Houthi spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed that Saudi forces had carried out 110 airstrikes and missile attacks across Yemen within 24 hours, resulting in more than 30 casualties. The claims could not be independently verified based on the information available.
The US Embassy in Amman urged American citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, avoid demonstrations, monitor local media and follow instructions issued by local authorities. It also advised them to contact airlines directly regarding travel disruptions and stay away from windows and fallen debris during aerial attacks.
The embassy said it remained open for routine American citizen and visa services.
