The US State Department on Thursday suspended operations at the American Embassy in Kuwait following missile attacks by Iran, carried out in retaliation amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East.
“The Department of State announced the suspension of operations at U.S. Embassy Kuwait City,” the State Department said in a statement, adding that the decision comes amid the widening conflict involving Iran.
The statement read, “While there have been no reported injuries to U.S. personnel, the safety of Americans abroad remains the highest priority of the U.S. Department of State. The Travel Advisory for Kuwait remains at a Level 3: Reconsider Travel. U.S. citizens in Kuwait should depart the country, if they can do so safely, using commercial or other available transportation options. U.S. citizens unable to depart should shelter in place.”
“U.S. 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 further read.
The embassy also urged citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
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Iran has fired missiles and drones toward US diplomatic facilities across the Middle East since the war began, prompting several embassies and consulates to close to the public.
As per reports, at least six American troops have been killed in an Iranian attack at Shuaiba port in Kuwait, a commercial harbour that acts as a logistics hub through which the US military ships tactical vehicles and supplies into the region. An additional 18 service members were wounded in the strike.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry stated Iranian drones struck Nakhchivan Thursday, damaging an airport building. Four civilians suffered injuries. One drone hit the airport near Iran’s border; another landed by a school.
