US Raises Bahrain, Qatar Advisories Amid Iran Battle: Reconsider Travel

Washington:

The United States raised its journey advisories for Bahrain and Qatar to Level 3 within the aftermath of the launch of US fight operations in Iran, citing safety dangers and potential disruptions throughout the Middle East.

The State Department mentioned it up to date its Travel Advisory for Bahrain on February 28 “to reflect that the Department authorized the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and family members of US government personnel to leave Bahrain due to security concerns.” The advisory elevated “from Level 2 to Level 3.”

The up to date advisory states: “Reconsider Travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict.”

It added that “Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.”

The division additionally warned that “Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning.”

Separately, the State Department raised Qatar’s Travel Advisory to Level 3 on March 1, up from Level 1, once more authorising the departure of non-emergency personnel and members of the family on account of safety issues.

The up to date discover states: “Reconsider Travel to Qatar due to the threat of armed conflict.”

It cited the identical regional developments, noting that “Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights.”

The advisory additional mentioned, “The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for the region, including Qatar. This is due to risks to civil aviation from political and military tensions in the region.”

A day earlier, the State Department had issued a “Worldwide Caution”.

“Following the launch of US 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 US embassy or consulate,” the alert mentioned.

It added that vacationers “may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures” and suggested Americans worldwide “to exercise increased caution.”

Both advisories urge US residents to enroll within the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), monitor native media, develop communication plans, and evaluation nation safety stories.

Level 3 advisories — “Reconsider Travel” — are issued when there are severe dangers to security and safety. They fall under Level 4, the best advisory, which urges Americans to not journey.

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