US Embassy in Jordan Evacuated; Kuwait Diplomatic Office Attacked
Tensions in the Middle East are directly impacting United States diplomatic missions in the region. On Monday local time, the US Embassy in Amman, Jordan evacuated all personnel temporarily, whilst the US diplomatic office in Kuwait came under reported air attack.
The US Embassy in Amman stated that the evacuation of personnel was undertaken “as a precautionary measure” following unspecified threats. The embassy is one of the world’s largest diplomatic complexes, located in an elite area of the capital.
In videos circulated widely among Jordanian residents, security warnings were heard broadcast through embassy loudspeakers in Arabic and English. The message urged: “Duck and seek shelter, move away from windows. Take cover and await further instructions.”
The situation proved more serious in Kuwait. Sources familiar with the matter told CNN that the US Embassy in Kuwait came under attack on Sunday and Monday amid Iranian bombardment of the country. Whilst smoke plumes were visible near the embassy area on Monday, no injuries have been reported to date. US officials have not provided formal confirmation regarding the extent of structural damage but acknowledged ongoing threats.
In a security warning issued Monday, the embassy in Kuwait issued firm instructions to American citizens. “There are ongoing threats of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks over Kuwait. Do not come to the embassy. Shelter at your residence on the lowest available floor and away from windows. Do not venture outside,” the warning stated, noting that embassy personnel were currently conducting shelter-in-place procedures.
In response to the regional tensions, the US Embassy in Kuwait has cancelled all appointments for US visa and American citizen services until further notice.
Security conditions in both countries remain under close monitoring as military activity and air strikes involving regional powers in the Gulf region and surrounding areas intensify.