The US State Department has released new travel advisories for American citizens travelling to Israel and the West Bank. This is in response to increased travel fears following recent military attacks on Iran. On Sunday, the department shared important information including where to find embassy branch offices and emergency passport services. Moreover, they cautioned travelers that flight delays or cancellations were likely. This travel advisory is intended to aid US nationals looking to leave these countries during these times of increased conflict.
Those updates are hugely important. The US military just recently struck three critical nuclear installations in Iran — actions that cause significant concern for the risks Americans in the area now face. The State Department has further stated that US nationals in Iran are at a heightened risk. If so, they can easily be questioned, arrested, or disappeared by Iranian authorities. They have further implored people to take action by exiting Iran. When it is safe to do so, we encourage travel by land routes only to Azerbaijan, Armenia, or Turkey.
So now, the State Department has issued its “do not travel” advisories to Turkey and Lebanon. Specifically, they urge Americans to avoid unnecessary travel because increased tensions may lead to protests targeting US nationals in these nations.
Key Updates for Americans in Israel and the West Bank
The US government has introduced assisted departure flights to evacuate American citizens stranded in Israel. Unfortunately, concrete progress on these efforts is not forthcoming at this time. The US Embassy has assured that they are able to get in contact with registered citizens, or their registered emergency contacts if necessary.
Effective Monday, all US nationals passing through Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport can begin boarding outbound flights from Terminal 3. Each flight will be capped at just 50 people.
“take the first available option, even if it is not your first choice of destination.”
The State Department, as always, has provided some important information regarding exit tax fees. They’ve fleshed out crossing operation schedules, what travelers can expect in terms of disruptions. They’ve insisted that the ticket sales are first come first served to all qualified applicants. Similar to the evacuation, humanitarian needs are expected to be balanced against security and national priorities in determining cases that get priority.
The U.S. embassy explicitly mentions that commercial transportation options remain open for individuals seeking to exit Lebanon. These alternatives are few and far between.
The State Department has updated its advisory for travel to Turkey, urging US government personnel to maintain a low profile due to negative sentiment directed toward US foreign policy. The advisory cautions that US citizens and interests overseas may face increased risk of anti-American violence or demonstrations.
Cautions Issued for Travel in Turkey and Iran
Additionally, the Iranian government doesn’t acknowledge dual citizenship—which creates an even more difficult predicament for U.S.-Iranian dual nationals. The State Department recommended that these people leave Iran on Iranian passports and be ready for extensive interrogation at checkpoints.
“There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad,” – U.S. State Department security alert.
NEW DELHI – As conflict erupts in the region, US officials are watching the situation unfold with great concern. The U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia is currently warning its personnel to take increased levels of precaution. They further advise against all travel to military bases beyond what is absolutely necessary given the heightened regional tensions.
“The Iranian government does not recognize dual nationality and will treat U.S.-Iranian dual nationals solely as Iranian citizens. U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran,” – U.S. State Department security alert.
The US State Department ordered family members and non-emergency personnel to leave Lebanon. They took this decision based on the changing and unpredictable security environment in the area. Although feasible commercial transportation options for those seeking to depart Lebanon are still quite limited, we continue to monitor the situation closely.
Current Situation in Lebanon and Iraq
Americans in Iraq have found that the US Embassy in Baghdad has suspended routine visa services until further notice. Like the Consulate General in Erbil, they have now stopped processing visas. As the State Department has correctly pointed out, the situation on the ground can change in an instant. Third, it calls on all Americans overseas to remain vigilantly aware of the changing security environment.
The current Israel-Iran war is upending the whole Middle East. Increased conflict means more frequent airspace closures, raising the stakes for international travelers hoping to make it to their destination.
“We encourage all travelers to review our most recent Security Alerts, review any travel plans in case of disruptions, and make appropriate decisions for themselves and their families,” – U.S. State Department.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has caused disruptions across the Middle East, leading to periodic airspace closures that may affect international travel plans.
