The United States has issued a worldwide security alert urging American citizens abroad to exercise increased caution after two US military personnel were killed in an Iranian missile and drone attack on a military base in Jordan, as the conflict between Washington and Tehran entered an increasingly dangerous phase.
The global advisory, issued by the US Department of State, warned Americans overseas to remain vigilant because of escalating tensions across the Middle East and the growing risk of attacks on US citizens, diplomatic missions and military installations.
The alert came shortly after Washington officials confirmed that two American service members were killed in the attack on the base in Jordan, while another service member remains missing and several others were wounded.
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The latest fatalities have raised the number of US military personnel killed since the outbreak of the war on February 28 to 16, with more than 400 others injured, highlighting the mounting human cost of one of the most serious military confrontations involving the United States in recent years.
Reacting to the deaths, President Donald Trump described the loss of the troops as “very sad” and extended his condolences to their families, while maintaining that the United States would continue its military campaign against Iran.
Trump’s remarks came as American forces launched a seventh consecutive night of air strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure, including air defence systems, logistics facilities, coastal surveillance sites and maritime assets.
Washington says the operations are intended to weaken Iran’s military capabilities, protect U.S. forces stationed across the Middle East and safeguard international shipping routes.
Iran, however, has accused the United States of repeatedly violating the ceasefire framework and memorandum of understanding intended to halt the conflict.
In a strongly worded statement, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, declared that President Trump’s signature was “worthless and invalid,” accusing Washington of repeatedly breaching agreements reached with Tehran.
The Iranian leader argued that continued US military operations demonstrate that American commitments cannot be trusted, adding that Iran would judge Washington by its actions rather than diplomatic promises.
The exchange of accusations has further dimmed hopes of preserving the fragile ceasefire announced after mediation efforts involving regional actors
Meanwhile, the Washington State Department’s worldwide alert advised Americans travelling or living overseas to closely monitor local developments, avoid areas affected by military operations or civil unrest, follow instructions from local authorities and review their personal security plans.
Officials warned that the rapidly changing security environment could lead to demonstrations, disruptions to travel and possible attacks against U.S. interests in several countries.
The military escalation has also heightened concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor through which a significant share of the world’s oil exports passes.
Analysts say any prolonged disruption in the Gulf could trigger higher oil prices, increased shipping costs and renewed uncertainty in global energy markets.
The latest developments come as Iran continues nationwide funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and members of his family, with millions of mourners participating and delegations from more than 100 countries expected to attend the seven-day programme across Iran and Iraq.
Security experts warn that the combination of mounting casualties, continued US air strikes, Iranian retaliatory attacks and increasingly confrontational rhetoric from both governments has significantly increased the risk of the conflict expanding into a broader regional war.
With Washington placing its citizens worldwide on heightened alert and both sides showing little sign of backing down militarily, international efforts to rescue the ceasefire are facing one of their most critical tests since the conflict began.