US embassies urge citizens to 'consider departing' Middle East

On August 1, US embassies in Middle Eastern capitals issued a warning to their citizens, urging them to be prepared for potential departure due to the ongoing conflict. This comes a day after President Donald Trump threatened a harsh response to Iran. Since February 28, Iran and the US have been at war, leading to widespread disruption in the region.

The embassies cautioned Americans to check their flight details and follow safety advice from local authorities. In Jordan, residents were advised not to visit military bases, while Israelis were urged to locate the nearest bomb shelter. Iran's military accused the US of escalating tensions, with a top official warning that any country aiding America would be engulfed in war.

Iran and the US have resumed exchanges of fire since a ceasefire collapsed. On Wednesday, a drone attacked a US-owned gas vessel in Egypt, causing a fire, though no group has been accused. An unknown projectile struck a tanker off Oman, disrupting maritime trade. The US and Iran continue to vie for control of the Strait of Hormuz, where traffic has sharply declined.

In Lebanon, Israeli forces killed three Hezbollah fighters, while one of their soldiers was injured. The situation remains volatile, with Iran maintaining control over key shipping routes.