US embassies tell citizens to 'consider departing' Middle East

US embassies across the Middle East have issued security alerts urging American citizens to "consider departing" the region due to "the potential for an unforseen escalation" in the conflict between the US and Iran. 

The warnings come after US President Donald Trump threatened to hit Iran "very hard" on Friday amid widespread US media reports anticipating an escalation in US attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure. 

"Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions," said an alert circulated by the US embassy in Jordan, with versions of the same text also posted by the American missions in Jerusalem, Muscat, Baghdad and Beirut.

Americans in Jordan were also advised to avoid travel to military bases in the country and to "exercise caution and stay alert at locations publicly associated with the United States."