The U.S. Embassy in Qatar has issued a security advisory urging American citizens in the country to “shelter in place until further notice,” citing an abundance of caution. The message, which was circulated via email, did not provide specific details about the reason for the advisory.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we recommend American citizens shelter in place until further notice,” the embassy stated.
The alert included emergency contact information for U.S. citizens in Qatar, including local emergency services at 999 and domestic violence support at 919. For urgent consular assistance, US nationals can reach the embassy after-hours at +974-4496-6000.
The development comes as regional tensions rise following recent U.S. military action in the Middle East. On June 22, the U.S. Department of State also issued a worldwide caution advisory, warning American citizens abroad to be alert amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
The U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai, meanwhile, remain fully operational, despite the State Department maintaining a Level 2 travel advisory for the UAE, which urges Americans to “exercise increased caution” when visiting the region.
“There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad,” the State Department said, referencing ongoing conflicts and disruptions to travel across the Middle East.
As of now, the U.S. government has not upgraded the advisory to a travel ban but continues to encourage vigilance among citizens in the region.
Sources: AFP, IANS, U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy in Qatar
