
With tensions rising between Israel and Iran, I’m sharing key resources for anyone traveling in the Middle East. The U.S. Department of State has raised the region’s travel advisory to Level 4—“Do Not Travel”—and provided guidance for U.S. citizens looking to leave. Here’s what you need to know:
- Middle East Conflict (Israel-Iran, 6/22/25): Disrupted travel, periodic airspace closures, and potential anti-U.S. demonstrations. U.S. citizens advised to exercise caution globally.
- Travel Resources: Check Travel Advisories, country info, and security alerts at travel.state.gov. Worldwide Caution: travel.state.gov/worldwide-caution2.
- Level 4 Travel Alert (Israel): U.S. government offers assisted departure flights from Israel. U.S. citizens/LPRs in Israel/West Bank seeking assistance, complete form: mytravel.state.gov/crisis-intake.
- Departure Options: Take earliest available option (even if not preferred). Third-party overland (Jordan, Egypt) and sea (Cyprus) departures reported; commercial ships available, check local media. State Department cannot endorse providers.
- Non-Departing U.S. Citizens: Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): travel.state.gov/step.
- Country-Specific Alerts:
- Israel: https://il.usembassy.gov/news-events/
- Jordan: https://jo.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
- Lebanon: https://lb.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
- Turkey: https://tr.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
- Arabia: https://sa.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
- UAE: https://ae.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
- Iraq: https://iq.usembassy.gov/security-alert
- Iran: Avoid Turkmenistan border; no U.S. citizens approved to cross U.S. Virtual Embassy Iran, 6/20/25.
- Security Updates: Join State Department’s WhatsApp Channel for select alerts via QR code (complements STEP).