US suspends operations at its Kuwait embassy amid Iran conflict

In its advisory, the department urged American citizens currently in Kuwait to leave the country

• US suspends embassy operations in Kuwait amid Iran conflict
• Americans in Kuwait urged to leave or shelter in place
• Travel advisory for Kuwait remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel

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The US department of state has announced the suspension of operations at its embassy in Kuwait City as the war against Iran continues.

The department emphasised that the safety and security of Americans overseas remains its "highest priority."

“While there have been no reported injuries to US personnel, the safety of Americans abroad remains the highest priority of the US Department of State,” according to a statement by the department.

The state department also said that the travel advisory for Kuwait remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, advising US citizens to check the latest updates and country-specific information through official channels.

In its advisory, the department urged American citizens currently in Kuwait to leave the country. "US citizens in Kuwait should depart the country, if they can do so safely, using commercial or other available transportation options. US citizens unable to depart should shelter in place," the statement noted.

The department also provided emergency contact details for American nationals who may require urgent assistance, including consular services or information regarding departure options.

"US citizens requiring emergency assistance, including consular services and information on available departure options, may contact the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the United States and Canada)," it said.

The developments come amid escalating tensions in West Asia following a joint US-Israel strike on Iranian territory on February 28 that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, along with several senior officials, triggering a sharp response from Tehran.

In retaliation, Iran launched waves of drone and missile attacks on American military bases across several Arab countries as the conflict entered its sixth day. Israel has also continued its strikes on Tehran while expanding the conflict to Lebanon by targeting Hezbollah.

"US citizens are strongly encouraged to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate," the statement by the US department of state said.