ISTANBUL

The United States has raised travel risk warnings for nine countries in the Middle East, urging American citizens to reconsider travel plans and exercise increased caution as tensions escalate in the region.

In a statement, the US Department of State said the updated travel advisory levels come as military escalation continues and the conflict risks spreading to neighboring countries.

The department said recent developments, including airstrikes and ongoing military operations, could increase the risk of missile or drone attacks and lead to sudden security disturbances in some areas.

It urged US citizens currently in the Middle East to follow security guidance issued by American embassies and consulates, avoid areas where tensions or military activity could occur and enroll in the government’s traveler registration program to receive security alerts.

The warning comes amid heightened tensions following US and Israeli attacks on Iran that have resulted in hundreds of casualties and prompted retaliatory military responses from Tehran.

Iran has targeted sites inside Israel as well as locations linked to US assets in the region.

Observers say the ongoing confrontation between Iran on one side and the United States and Israel on the other has raised fears of a wider regional conflict that could involve several countries across the Middle East as tensions and military activity intensify.