LSDS Global Snapshot for the Week of March 1, 2026

Situation: On 28 February, the U.S. Department of State issued a Worldwide Caution Security Alert advising U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution following the initiation of combat operations in Iran. Travelers are advised to follow the security alerts issued to US citizens by the nearest embassy. 

Points of Awareness: 

• All U.S. citizens overseas are reminded to stay alert to the possibility of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.  

• Increases in protests and demonstrations are likely over the coming days both within the US and internationally. 

• The threat of terrorist action is higher as lone wolf actors or active cells may look to take retaliatory action. Targets may include government buildings, key leaders, key infrastructure or symbols of the U.S., Israel and other Gulf/Middle East allies. 

• All travelers can expect disruptions to travel and periodic airspace closures across the Middle East, with ripple effects on airports worldwide. 

• All travelers, regardless of nationality, should heed the warning and practice the mitigation measures outlined below. 

  
  

Mitigation Measures

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive information and alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency overseas.

  • Or similar travel program as provided by your home country.

• Read Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent security alerts on Department of State website.

• Monitor local news and media for updates.

• Confirm all travel plans prior to departure.

• Use app for airline flying with for most up-to-date flight status, if applicable

• Communication is key.  Have a plan and check in at regular intervals with those you know.

• Prepare for disruptions caused by protests, including increased traffic and security, blocked roads, and potential travel to demonstration sites.

• Large-scale event best practices: 

  • Remain alert for changes in the demeanor of the crowd body or any signs of violence or other rapid escalation.

  • Continually assess the situation and note routes (more than one is preferred) to get out of an area quickly if needed. 

  • Avoid interactions with aggressive or armed individuals.

  • Avoid entering into areas or locations that could easily lead to a crowd crush situation (bottlenecked, very limited and/or unclear exit areas).

  • Violence is often in close proximity to barricades, police or counter-protests;  being aware of where you are and moving away from potential flashpoints is recommended.

• Ensure you have ‘acknowledged safe’ responses from anyone in the region impacted by the current conflict.

LSDS® — Where Preparedness Meets Peace of Mind

DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.