US urges citizens to leave Middle East amid Iran tensions

On August 1, 2026, US embassies in Israel and other Middle Eastern countries advised American citizens to leave or be prepared to leave the region. The advisory comes amid rising tensions with Iran, with President Trump threatening to hit Iran 'very hard'. The State Department urged citizens to 'consider departing' the Middle East in case of escalation. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of US nationals in the region.