International Safety and Security has been watching the unfolding events in the Middle East region closely and want you to know we have your safety as our highest priority. As you may have seen, tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated in recent days, resulting in military activity. These developments have prompted the U.S. Department of State to update the Worldwide Caution Security Alert, signaling potential risks for U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad.
Worldwide Caution - February 28, 2026
Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures. The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution. Enroll at https://step.state.gov to receive the latest security alerts and follow the “U.S. Department of State - Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp. When planning travel, read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent alerts at https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html.
Please keep the following safety practices in mind:
Stay Informed: Follow reliable news outlets and use local news apps for timely updates.
Avoid Protests and Demonstrations: Even peaceful events can change quickly and may pose risks. Stay away from political rallies, protests, and large gatherings, which can become dangerous unexpectedly.
Follow Local Guidance: Pay close attention to instructions from your program staff, host institution, and local authorities.
Situational Awareness: Avoid using headphones or staring at your phone in public to remain alert to your surroundings.
Low Profile: Avoid dressing in ways that identify you as American and avoid loud behavior in public.
Travel Safety: Avoid traveling alone, especially at night. Use trusted transportation and know your routes back to your lodging.
Know Your Emergency Contacts: Save the contact information for your program provider and the embassy or consulate representing your country of citizenship. (Find a U.S. embassy in your host country.)
We understand that events like this can be upsetting, especially when you are away from your family and friends. If you would like more information about support resources you can call the international insurance and request in person or remote counseling services, use the Telus Health app offered through Campus Wellbeing, or ask your program leaders for assistance connecting to support resources available to Illinois students abroad. If anyone feels unsafe in your study abroad program location, you can talk to your program leader or reach out to International Safety and Security (safetyabroad@illinois.edu) to discuss your concerns.
For the most up-to-date information about what is happening in the region, monitor local or national media. All university travelers abroad are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. Department of State to receive security messages from the U.S. embassy or consulate in your host country. Additionally, you can review messaging on U.S. embassy websites and social media accounts.
International Safety and Security is available to assist University of Illinois students, faculty, and staff abroad 24/7. You can reach us through UIPD by calling +1-217-333-1216. Tell the dispatcher that you need to speak with the International Safety office and you will be transferred to the staff member on call.
Thank you,
International Safety and Security