The US State Department is urging American travelers in the Middle East to exercise increased caution due to growing security risks in the region. Despite potential diplomatic movement between Washington, D.C., and Tehran, US officials warn that airspace closures, demonstrations, and threats to locations associated with the United States could disrupt travel with little notice.

Security Alert

In an early June security alert, the US Embassy in Jerusalem said the security environment in the Middle East remains ‘complex’ and could change quickly, urging Americans in the region to monitor breaking developments. The State Department’s Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ warning remains in place for Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and Yemen, while Level 3 ‘Reconsider Travel’ advisories remain in place for Bahrain, Israel, the West Bank, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Americans in the affected countries are also urged to avoid areas with a heavy police presence, follow the instructions of local authorities, and ‘keep a low profile.’ The State Department advises Americans abroad to follow alerts from the nearest US embassy or consulate, confirm flights and routes directly with airlines, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.