The United States has issued a security warning for Americans across the Middle East, urging them to exercise heightened vigilance amid an increased threat
of armed attacks by Iranian-supported Houthis and alleged Iranian efforts to target US government officials in the region. The US Mission to the United Arab Emirates shared the advisory on X, cautioning American citizens about the evolving security situation. The security advisory comes against the backdrop of reports that Iran has begun distributing iodine tablets to people living near its nuclear facilities in anticipation of possible renewed US strikes. The Times of London reported, citing an Iranian Health Ministry official, that the preventive medication was being distributed within a two-to-three-kilometre radius of nuclear installations during periods of heightened military conflict. Al Jazeera also reported the development.
Middle East: Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance due to the increased threat of armed attacks by Iranian-supported Houthis and Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region. Be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. Read the latest country-specific alerts at https://t.co/1syDCgaHVc
— US Mission to UAE (@USAinUAE) November 7, 2026
US May Strike Pickaxe Mountain
Iodine tablets are used to protect the thyroid gland from absorbing radioactive iodine in the event of exposure. Their distribution near sensitive nuclear installations has added to concerns about the potential consequences of another round of military action.
Meanwhile, reports have emerged that a possible US strike on Iran's heavily fortified Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site is under consideration. Al Jazeera, citing an Iranian political journalist, reported that Iranian officials had been informed about the possibility during a recent briefing.
Trump met his national security team on Wednesday and Thursday to discuss whether Washington should resume military operations against Iran, Fox News reported, citing senior US officials.
The US security warning also notes that the threat environment could lead to flight cancellations, airspace closures and wider travel disruptions. "Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance due to the increased threat of armed attacks by Iranian-supported Houthis and Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region," the mission said.
CENTCOM reportedly prepares for possible military operations
The possibility of renewed confrontation has also put the US military's regional posture under scrutiny. Reports citing a US official indicate that the United States Central Command is finalising preparations for a possible resumption of major operations against Iran.
However, formal directives from Washington have reportedly not yet been issued. The prospect of escalation has also prompted concerns among neighbouring countries about the use of their territory in any potential military campaign.
During a telephone conversation with Trump on Thursday, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi reiterated that Iraqi territory must not be used to launch attacks against neighbouring countries. The Iraqi Prime Minister's Office subsequently issued a statement on X, saying the prime minister had reaffirmed Baghdad's position on respecting state sovereignty and preventing the use of Iraqi territory as a launchpad for aggression.
With the US warning its citizens about possible armed attacks and travel disruptions, Tehran preparing for potential strikes and Washington considering its next military move, the latest advisory underscores the growing security uncertainty across the Middle East.
