State Department issues worldwide security alert for U.S. citizens amid Iran war

The U.S. Department of State issued a worldwide security alert advising Americans to exercise increased caution, warning that groups supportive of Iran may target U.S. interests overseas or locations associated with the United States and Americans.

The State Department said Sunday that Americans abroad, especially in the Middle East, should follow guidance in security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, and warned that periodic airspace closures could disrupt travel.

“Groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or locations associated with the United States and/or Americans throughout the world,” the alert added.

The warning comes after several incidents worldwide since the war began that investigators or officials have linked, or are examining for possible links, to the conflict.

In Austin, Texas, four people including the gunman were killed and 15 others were injured in a shooting at a bar that the FBI has been investigating as a possible act of terrorism related to the war with Iran.

In Karachi, Pakistan, protesters targeted the U.S. Consulate General and breached the perimeter while attempting to enter the compound before security forces opened fire, killing several protesters.

Other incidents have involved U.S. diplomatic sites outside the Middle East. In Oslo, Norway, an improvised explosive device detonated at the entrance to the U.S. Embassy, causing damage but no injuries. Three Norwegian citizens with links to Iraq were arrested.

In Toronto, the U.S. consulate was also struck by gunfire in the early morning hours, with no injuries reported and the suspects fleeing.

The State Department did not identify any specific threat in its alert.