India, March 1 -- The US embassy in Oman has asked staff and citizens to shelter in place, citing unspecified "activity" outside the capital Muscat. This comes as Iran conducts a second day of retaliatory strikes across the Gulf.

In a "security alert" post, U.S. Embassy Muscat wrote on X, "Due to ongoing activity outside of Muscat, the U.S. Embassy in Oman has instructed staff to shelter-in-place (i.e., take cover). We recommend all Americans in Oman do the same until further notice."

"Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items," the embassy insisted. "Monitor media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans."

It also urged people ...