BEIRUT, Lebanon – The U.S. Embassy in Beirut issued a security alert Monday, advising American citizens worldwide, and particularly those in the Middle East, to heed guidance from U.S. Embassies and consulates following the launch of combat operations in Iran. The alert comes as fighting continues in Operation Epic Fury and extends to Europe, according to reports.
Four U.S. Service members have been killed in action and five seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command announced Sunday and Monday. Several others sustained minor injuries, including shrapnel wounds and concussions, and are expected to return to duty. The Pentagon is withholding the names of the deceased pending notification of next of kin, with identities to be released 24 hours after families have been informed.
The conflict has expanded beyond direct military engagements. Iran and Iranian-backed militias reportedly fired missiles at Israel and Arab states Monday, with one strike apparently hitting the U.S. Embassy compound in Kuwait. Simultaneously, Israel and the United States are conducting strikes against targets within Iran. A bomb-carrying drone boat struck a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, resulting in one fatality, according to Omani officials. Iran has issued threats against vessels approaching the Strait of Hormuz and is suspected of launching multiple attacks.
Saudi Aramco temporarily shut down its Ras Tanura oil refinery near Dammam after it was targeted by Iranian drones, a move that directly threatens the kingdom’s economy. The guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black fired a Tomahawk Land Attack Missile in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility on March 2, according to the U.S. Navy.
The security alert from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut follows a Worldwide Caution issued on February 28, 2026, emphasizing the need for Americans abroad to stay informed and follow the instructions of U.S. Diplomatic and security personnel. The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), a partnership between the U.S. State Department and the private security sector, is similarly providing threat analysis and support to U.S. Organizations operating overseas.
