Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Mar 2: The United States Department of State has raised its travel advisories for Bahrain and Qatar to Level 3 following the launch of US combat operations in Iran, citing heightened security risks and possible travel disruptions across the Middle East.
In an update issued on February 28, the State Department said it had revised Bahrain’s advisory “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 was increased from Level 2 to Level 3.
The updated notice urges Americans to “Reconsider Travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict.” It warned 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, along with significant disruptions to commercial flights.
The department also cautioned that terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bahrain and may strike with little or no warning.
Separately, Qatar’s travel advisory was raised to Level 3 on March 1, up from Level 1. The State Department again authorised the departure of non-emergency personnel and their family members due to security concerns.
The revised advisory states: “Reconsider Travel to Qatar due to the threat of armed conflict.” It cited similar regional developments, including threats of drone and missile attacks and disruptions to civil aviation.
The advisory further noted that 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, due to risks to civil aviation arising from political and military tensions.
A day earlier, the State Department had issued a “Worldwide Caution,” advising Americans — particularly those in the Middle East — to follow security alerts from the nearest US embassy or consulate.
The alert warned that travellers may face disruptions due to periodic airspace closures and urged US citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution.
Both advisories recommend that Americans enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), monitor local media, establish communication plans and review country-specific security reports.
Level 3 advisories, which urge travellers to “Reconsider Travel,” indicate serious risks to safety and security. They fall below Level 4 — the highest level — which advises Americans not to travel.