Americans preparing to travel overseas are being urged to stay alert in light of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
A global security notice issued on March 22 advises U.S. citizens to “exercise increased caution” worldwide, with particular attention on the Middle East. The alert adds that places linked to the United States could face increased risk, and notes that airspace could be temporarily closed in some areas.
“Americans abroad should follow the guidance in security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate,” the advisory asserts. “Groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or locations associated with the United States and/or Americans throughout the world.”
The U.S. Department of State has also highlighted specific destinations it currently considers higher risk for American travelers. In recent guidance, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, the UAE, and Israel were placed under a Level 3 advisory, which tells travelers to ‘reconsider’ visiting. Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon are listed at Level 4, the agency’s “do not travel” category.
The State Department’s full list of Level 4: Do Not Travel countries as of April 2026:
State Department travel advisories run from Level 1 through Level 4, and the rationale differs by country. Reasons can include crime, health concerns, civil unrest, kidnapping or hostage taking, terrorism, wrongful detention, and other factors.
Level 4 is reserved for destinations where authorities believe the threat to life and safety is especially severe. In these situations, U.S. government support may be extremely limited, including during emergencies. Americans are advised not to go, or to depart as soon as it is safe, and to monitor official updates because conditions can change rapidly.
The State Department explains Level 4 on its website: “This is the highest advisory level due to life-threatening risks. Specific risks are described in the Travel Advisory. The U.S. government may have very limited or no ability to help, including during an emergency. We advise that U.S. citizens do not travel to the country, or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so.”