US Shuts Middle East Embassies

The U.S. has ordered the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their families from embassies and consulates in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, and Jordan. This follows a series of direct threats and attacks on U.S. diplomatic missions as the conflict with Iran escalates. The U.S. embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was struck by two drones, causing a fire and minor damage, while the embassy in Kuwait also closed its doors after being targeted. In response to the attacks, the State Department has issued a "DEPART NOW" advisory for American citizens in 14 Middle Eastern countries, citing "serious safety risks." This regional conflict began on February 28, 2026, with a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran, codenamed "Operation Epic Fury" by the U.S. The initial strikes targeted over 1,000 sites and resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to Iranian state media. Iran has retaliated by targeting U.S. bases and allied interests across the region, including strikes on Gulf countries like the UAE and Qatar. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has also claimed to have closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital channel for global oil supplies, though U.S. Central Command has disputed this claim. In addition to the U.S., other Western nations have also taken action. The United Kingdom has withdrawn some diplomatic staff from Iran, and countries including Canada, Australia, Germany, and France have issued heightened travel warnings, urging their citizens to leave the region. The conflict has already had a significant impact on the region, with widespread flight cancellations and airspace closures. At least six U.S. service members have been killed in the hostilities. The U.S. embassy in Jerusalem has stated it is unable to provide evacuation assistance to American citizens in Israel, where Ben Gurion Airport remains closed. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has condemned the Iranian attacks on its neighbors and stated its readiness to support them. President Trump has indicated the U.S. expects the conflict to last "four to five weeks," but has also stated that America has the "capability to go far longer." The escalating situation has led to fears of a prolonged and widening regional war.