India, Sept. 20 -- The US government has warned its citizens in the Middle East to exercise heightened vigilance and remain prepared for potential flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions amid a fresh escalation of tensions in the region.

"Due to tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation. Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance and be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions," the US Department of State said in a Facebook post.

The department said Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks affecting civilian airpo...