U.S. embassies in the Middle East on the 1st (local time) advised their citizens to be ready to evacuate in preparation for a possible armed clash between the United States and Iran.
U.S. embassies in Jordan, Iraq and Israel, among others, said in a coordinated statement, "U.S. citizens in the Middle East should exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant, and prepare for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures and potential travel disruptions."
The embassies said, "Some airlines have delayed resuming operations, and some routes have been canceled," and added, "U.S. citizens should consider departure or prepare to depart if the situation worsens."
They also said that U.S. diplomatic missions outside the Middle East are becoming targets of attack, and added, "U.S. citizens outside the Middle East should reconsider visiting or transiting through the region."
CBS reported that the United States and Israel plan to carry out airstrikes against Iran together but that no final decision has been made, while The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that President Donald Trump has already given the order and that the attacks will continue for several days.
If the United States actually launches new airstrikes, Iran is likely to retaliate by striking multiple U.S. military bases and other targets in the Middle East again.