New Delhi, Aug. 1 -- US embassies across several Middle Eastern countries have urged American citizens to exercise heightened caution and be prepared to leave the region as fears grow over a possible escalation in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.

In security alerts issued by US diplomatic missions in Amman, Jerusalem, Muscat, Baghdad and Beirut, Americans were advised to consider departing the region or be ready to do so if the security situation deteriorates further.

The embassy advisories warned that the regional security environment remains "complex" and unpredictable, with the potential for sudden escalation.

US citizens currently in the Middle East were advised to:

-Exercise heightened caution and vigilanc...