“Reconsider Travel”: US raises Bahrain, Qatar advisories amid Iran conflict

The United States has raised its travel advisories for Bahrain and Qatar to Level 3 following the launch of US combat operations in Iran, citing heightened security risks and potential disruptions across the region.

The US Department of State said it updated Bahrain’s advisory on February 28, authorising the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and their family members due to security concerns. The advisory was raised from Level 2 to Level 3 and now urges Americans to “Reconsider Travel to Bahrain due to terrorism and armed conflict.”

The department noted that since the onset of hostilities between the US and Iran, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran, along with significant disruptions to commercial flights. It also warned that terrorist groups continue to plot possible attacks in Bahrain and could strike with little or no warning.

Separately, Qatar’s advisory was elevated to Level 3 on March 1, up from Level 1, with similar authorisation for the departure of non-emergency personnel and their families. The updated notice advises Americans to “Reconsider Travel to Qatar due to the threat of armed conflict,” citing the same regional developments and aviation risks.

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for the region, including Qatar, due to risks to civil aviation stemming from political and military tensions.

A day earlier, the State Department had issued a “Worldwide Caution,” advising Americans — particularly those in the Middle East — to follow guidance from the nearest US embassy or consulate. It warned of possible travel disruptions from periodic airspace closures and urged citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution.

Both advisories encourage US nationals to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), monitor local media, establish communication plans and review country-specific security reports.

Level 3 advisories, which urge travellers to “Reconsider Travel,” indicate serious safety and security risks and rank below Level 4 — the highest advisory level — which advises Americans not to travel at all.