US issues security alerts for Iran, Iraq, Israel and Jordan, warns of missile attacks
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A damaged high-rise building that was hit by Israeli air strikes, north of Tehran, on June 13.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
WASHINGTON – The US State Department issued security alerts on June 13 for several Middle Eastern countries, in some cases advising against travel and warning of possible missile attacks after Israel launched military strikes against Iran.
It warned American citizens not to travel to Iran and said those there should leave.
“US citizens who are unable to depart Iran should shelter in place,” the advisory read.
The alerts warned of missiles, drones or rockets flying over Iraqi and Jordanian airspace.
“In the event of such an incident, seek overhead cover and shelter in place. Do not expose yourself to falling debris,” the department said.
Israel said on June 13 it had targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders at the start of what it warned would be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.
Iran promised a harsh response to the onslaught. Israel said about 100 drones had been launched towards Israeli territory in retaliation, although an Iranian source denied this.
Airlines steered clear of much of the Middle East on June 13 after the Israeli attacks forced carriers to cancel or divert thousands of flights in the latest upheaval to travel in the region.
Late on June 12, the US State Department said it had directed all US government employees and their family members in Israel to shelter in place until further notice. REUTERS
