Washington, D.C. – March 1, 2026 – The U.S. Department of State on Saturday issued a worldwide security alert advising American citizens to exercise increased caution in light of the ongoing U.S. military operations against Iran that began earlier in the day. The alert specifically highlighted elevated risks in the Middle East while calling on U.S. nationals globally to stay informed through official channels.
In the statement posted on the department’s website and disseminated through diplomatic missions, the State Department noted that “following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.” The agency emphasized that the situation remains fluid and could evolve rapidly, potentially affecting U.S. citizens and interests far beyond the immediate conflict zone.
The alert warned of possible travel disruptions stemming from the military escalation. “They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures,” it stated, pointing to the precautionary airspace restrictions already implemented by several Gulf countries—including Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia—in response to Iranian retaliatory missile and drone attacks. The department advised travelers to anticipate delays, cancellations, and limited commercial flight options, particularly in the Middle East, Persian Gulf, and adjacent regions.
The guidance urged heightened vigilance amid the potential for demonstrations, anti-American sentiment, or opportunistic criminal activity linked to the heightened tensions. Americans were encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts, maintain communication with family, and prepare contingency plans, including alternative travel routes and emergency contacts.
The alert was issued hours after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed American participation in “major combat operations” against Iran under “Operation Epic Fury,” following Israel’s pre-emptive strikes codenamed “Lion’s Roar.” Trump described the campaign as essential to eliminate imminent threats from Iran’s missile capabilities, nuclear program, and regional proxy networks, while urging Iranian forces to surrender and calling on civilians to overthrow the regime. He acknowledged the possibility of U.S. casualties in the conflict.
The strikes targeted Iranian military infrastructure, missile production facilities, command centers, and reportedly senior leadership figures. Iranian authorities confirmed on Sunday the deaths of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several top military officials, including Chief of the General Staff Abdolrahim Mousavi, IRGC Ground Forces Commander Mohammad Pakpour, Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Shamkhani, and Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh. A 40-day national mourning period has been declared, and an interim Leadership Council has been formed under Article 111 of the Iranian Constitution.
Iran responded with large-scale retaliatory missile and drone barrages targeting Israeli territory and U.S. military bases across the Gulf, including a confirmed strike on a U.S.-linked facility in Bahrain’s Juffair area and an intercepted missile over Qatar. Civilian casualties have been reported on the Iranian side, including five students killed when a girls’ primary school in Minab, Hormozgan province, was reportedly struck. The Iranian Red Crescent Society stated that attacks occurred near medical and humanitarian facilities in Tehran.
The U.S. strikes took place despite ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations mediated by Oman, with the latest round concluding in Geneva on Thursday. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi had described progress as “within our reach” after meeting U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Friday.
The State Department alert reflects standard protocol following major U.S. military actions in regions with American citizens or interests. Similar worldwide cautions were issued during previous escalations, including the January 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed IRGC Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani and the June 2025 12-day Israel-Iran war, during which the U.S. later bombed three Iranian nuclear facilities (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan).
The department reiterated that U.S. embassies and consulates in the region remain operational and are issuing location-specific guidance. Americans were advised to avoid demonstrations, limit unnecessary travel, and monitor local media and embassy alerts for updates. The alert did not call for evacuation but underscored the unpredictable nature of the evolving security environment.
International reactions to the strikes have been polarized. China, Russia, and several other nations condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty. France, Germany, and the UK denied participation while condemning Iranian retaliatory strikes. The European Union and Switzerland urged maximum restraint and respect for international law. Several Asian countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Bangladesh, called for de-escalation and diplomacy. Protests erupted in Indian-administered Kashmir and Pakistan, with clashes near the U.S. Consulate in Karachi.
Gulf states closed or restricted airspace, placed forces on high alert, and expressed concern over energy disruptions. Oil prices remain elevated amid fears regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The Russian Embassy in Tehran urged citizens to leave Iran if possible.
As the conflict enters its second day, with missile exchanges ongoing and regional airspace restricted, the State Department’s global alert underscores the broad ripple effects of the military escalation on U.S. citizens and interests worldwide. Americans are advised to stay informed, exercise caution, and follow instructions from U.S. diplomatic missions.
