The State Department has heightened its efforts to ensure the safety of American citizens in the Middle East following the weekend strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. The department has increased emergency evacuation flights for Americans in Israel, evacuated nonessential staff from the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon, and issued travel warnings across the region. Concerns over potential Iranian retaliation have prompted these proactive measures.

Americans abroad have been urged to exercise caution due to disruptions in travel and periodic airspace closures in the Middle East. The State Department has specifically advised increased vigilance against potential demonstrations targeting U.S. citizens and interests. Nonessential personnel and their families at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut have been instructed to depart Lebanon due to the volatile security situation.

Moreover, heightened security precautions have been recommended for U.S. citizens in Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Reports of regional hostilities have prompted advisories to limit non-essential travel to military installations. In light of negative sentiment towards U.S. foreign policy, U.S. personnel in Turkey have been advised to maintain a low profile.

Evacuation efforts include flights from Israel to Europe and a gradual drawdown of staff at diplomatic missions in Iraq. Despite challenges such as airspace closures, evacuation flights have been organized for American citizens, with plans for further flights to ensure their safe departure. Security reviews are being conducted at U.S. embassies and consulates to enhance preparedness in the wake of recent events.