U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Warns of Flight Disruptions Across Middle East

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert on 18 October 2026, warning Americans currently in the Middle East to exercise heightened vigilance because of a complex security environment. Travellers should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and wider travel disruptions.

Key facts

• Date of alert: 18 October 2026
• Who it concerns: Americans in the Middle East, and anyone travelling to or from the region
• Main risks flagged: flight cancellations, airspace closures, travel disruptions
• Consular services: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem and the Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv are open for routine and emergency consular services
• Flight information: departure boards for Ben Gurion (Tel Aviv) and Haifa airports

What has been announced?

The embassy said Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure that have caused civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. It warned that the hostilities have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.

The alert also states that Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other United States interests overseas, or locations associated with the United States and Americans around the world, including U.S. businesses and other institutions.

What should travellers do?

Americans travelling to or from the Middle East are advised to monitor information about airport and airline operations and to develop contingency plans in advance. The embassy said travellers should check their flight's departure status directly with the airline, or through the Israel Airports Authority flight boards for Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv and for Haifa airport.

The embassy also urged U.S. citizens to enrol in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides security updates and makes it easier for the embassy to contact them in an emergency.

What this means for travellers

Anyone flying to, from or within the region should confirm departure status with their airline before leaving for the airport and keep plans flexible in case of cancellations or airspace closures. The alert also recommends knowing the location of the closest shelter or protected space, and finding a secure location within a residence or other safe building.

For real-time alerts on rockets, missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions, the embassy points to the free Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command application for Android and Apple devices. It notes that free commercial applications, such as "Red Alert: Israel," are also available. The alert also advises having a supply of food; the remainder of that guidance was not included in the published text.

What happens next

No end date or further update has been announced. The embassy's consular sections in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv remain open for routine and emergency consular services, and the alert directs travellers to keep monitoring airport and airline operations.