The U.S. Department of State has suspended operations at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait City and is urging American citizens in Kuwait to depart the country if they can do so safely. The department said there have been no reported injuries among U.S. personnel and reiterated that the safety and security of Americans overseas is its highest priority.
Travel Advisory and guidance
– The Travel Advisory for Kuwait remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel. The department advised U.S. citizens to consult the latest travel information at travel.state.gov.
– U.S. citizens in Kuwait should leave the country using commercial or other available transportation options if it is safe to do so. Those who cannot safely depart are advised to shelter in place.
Consular assistance and alerts
– For emergency consular assistance, contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) or +1-888-407-4747 (from the United States and Canada).
– U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive security alerts and updates from the nearest U.S. diplomatic mission.
Context
The suspension comes amid rising tensions in the region after a reported joint U.S.-Israel strike on February 28 on Iranian territory that was said to have killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and other senior figures. Iran has reportedly launched multiple drone and missile attacks targeting American military bases across several Arab countries in retaliation, and Israel has continued strikes, extending operations into Lebanon with strikes against Hezbollah.
The State Department continues to monitor conditions closely and will provide updates as the situation evolves. U.S. citizens should check travel.state.gov and STEP alerts for the latest information and follow local safety instructions.
