The United States has warned its citizens across the Middle East to prepare for possible escalation in the regional conflict, urging Americans to consider leaving or be ready to depart if the security situation worsens.

US embassies in Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates issued similar security alerts on Saturday, advising citizens to remain vigilant, monitor flight schedules and expect possible airspace closures and travel disruptions.

The warning came a day after US President Donald Trump threatened to hit Iran "very hard." The conflict between the United States and Iran, which began on February 28, has continued despite a brief ceasefire.

According to AFP, the US Embassy in Jordan advised Americans to avoid military bases, while the embassy in Israel urged citizens to locate the nearest bomb shelter. The US Embassy in Beirut said it remains under "ordered departure status," with non-essential personnel relocated outside Lebanon.

Iran accused Washington of escalating tensions, warning that countries supporting the United States could face the consequences of a wider conflict.

Regional security concerns have also spread to key shipping routes. An unknown projectile struck a tanker off the coast of Oman on Saturday, while commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has fallen sharply amid rising tensions.

Meanwhile, Israel said it killed three Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon on Saturday, highlighting the risk of the conflict widening further across the region.

BOB Post