The United States issued a travel warning for Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, and Jerusalem in response to “heightened tension in the Middle East.”
The security alert was issued on Monday and came less than a week after the U.S. conducted a drone strike that killed top Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the Embassy strongly encourages U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness, as security incidents, including rocket fire, often take place without warning,” the alert said.
The warning also told citizens to be aware of the nearest shelter when traveling and noted that a rocket attack might be accompanied by a red alert siren. It additionally urged travelers to “keep a low profile” and stay aware of their surroundings.
The death of Soleimani raised fears of potential retaliation from Iran or Iranian proxies. Soleimani’s successor, Gen. Esmail Ghaani, vowed on Monday to “rid the region of America.” President Trump, however, has threatened “major retaliation” if the country seeks revenge.
Soleimani, 62, was killed along with Abu Mahdi al Muhandis, leader of the Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Forces.
