State Department urges Americans to leave Middle East as airports close and embassies shut down

The U.S. State Department is urging Americans across the Middle East to leave as soon as possible using any available commercial transportation as airstrikes continue across the region. As reported by NBC News, the advisory comes as airports close and U.S. embassies and consulates struggle to operate.

The warning follows recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that triggered retaliation in multiple countries. The State Department issued a “worldwide caution” alert for Americans overseas on March 1, 2026. Its first such notice since June 22, 2025.

Americans have been told to depart from Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. President Trump suggested the conflict could last a month or longer, raising concerns about a prolonged escalation.

Airports and embassies face severe disruptions

Major international hubs have been hit or shut down, including Dubai International Airport and airports in Abu Dhabi and Doha. The closures have disrupted critical routes between Europe, Africa, and Asia, and Pentagon troop numbers secrecy has surfaced in related reporting as U.S. deployments expand.

Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv is also closed, leaving no commercial or charter flights available. With limited transportation options, some Americans remain stranded or unable to finalize travel plans.

U.S. embassies and consulates across the region have suspended routine and, in some cases, emergency services. The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain is closed, and Americans there were warned to avoid hotels after a strike hit the Crowne Plaza in Manama.

In Kuwait, Americans have been instructed to stay indoors and take cover on the lowest floor of buildings, away from windows, because of missile and drone threats. Consular appointments for visas and American Citizen Services have been canceled until further notice in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Iraq, and much of Pakistan.

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem said it is “not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel.” The State Department has formed a task force to assist U.S. citizens, but options remain limited as facilities operate under restrictions.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted a video on X outlining how Americans can contact officials, emphasizing that the safety and security of U.S. citizens is the top priority. Spain US base agreements have also drawn attention as the wider conflict reshapes U.S. military posture abroad.

The fighting has resulted in significant casualties, including six U.S. service members killed in action and 18 seriously wounded. Iran’s Red Crescent reported more than 200 people killed and roughly 700 injured, and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks.

Non emergency diplomatic staff and their families have been authorized to depart from several U.S. embassies in the region as the State Department continues urging Americans to leave if they are able.