Washington warns its citizens: Reconsider travel to Kuwait

The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait has warned American citizens against traveling to Kuwait, or to reconsider any travel to or through the Middle East region, amid ongoing security tensions in the area and the possibility of unexpected escalation.

In a security alert issued today, the embassy stated that “the security environment in the Middle East remains complex due to heightened tensions,” urging American citizens in the region “to exercise maximum caution, stay informed of news and developments as they occur, and verify with airlines whether flight schedules remain unchanged before traveling.”

The embassy clarified that the U.S. Embassy’s consular section in Kuwait continues to provide limited emergency services to American citizens, while non-emergency consular services, including visa and authentication services, have been suspended until further notice. It also noted that passport renewal applications are still being accepted through scheduled appointments or via the Passport Acceptance Facility for eligible individuals.

The embassy urged its citizens to comply with local authorities’ instructions, avoid debris or sites that could be targeted in the event of a security incident, and follow official guidance from relevant authorities.

It also advised American citizens to maintain contact with family members to inform them of their status, ensure that travel documents are valid and readily accessible, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates from the embassy, and follow the U.S. Department of State’s security updates channel on WhatsApp.

The embassy noted that the number 112 remains the designated contact for emergency services in Kuwait, including police, ambulance, and fire services, in case of urgent assistance needs.