Amman: The United States has issued a fresh security alert for its citizens in Jordan, warning of a “specific and credible threat” in the southern port city of Aqaba and advising Americans to avoid the city’s international airport and seaport. However, the Jordanian government has strongly rejected the warning, stating that no security threats have been detected and that both facilities remain fully operational.
The advisory comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following the escalating confrontation between the United States and Iran, with Jordan increasingly finding itself affected by regional security developments.
US Embassy issues security advisory
The US Embassy in Amman on Sunday urged American citizens to avoid Aqaba’s airport and seaport, claiming that Jordanian authorities had evacuated both facilities because of a potential security threat.
While describing the threat as “specific and credible”, the embassy did not reveal its nature or identify the source of the intelligence. It also advised travellers whose flights could be affected to contact their airlines for the latest information.
The embassy further urged Americans in Jordan to remain vigilant, avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings, stay away from areas with a significant security presence, monitor local news, and follow instructions issued by Jordanian authorities.
US citizens were also advised to maintain a low profile and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and facilitate contact with the embassy during emergencies.
Jordan rejects evacuation claim
Jordanian authorities quickly dismissed the US advisory, stating that no evacuation had been ordered at Aqaba’s airport or seaport.
Government spokesperson Mohammad Al-Momani said the relevant security agencies had not recorded any potential threats over the past several hours and confirmed that both the airport and port were functioning normally.
“The airport and port are operating normally,” Al-Momani said in a written statement, directly contradicting the US Embassy’s assertion that the facilities had been evacuated.
Jordanian officials stressed that security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely and would take appropriate action if any credible threat emerged.
Earlier US travel restrictions remain in place
The latest advisory also reiterated previous security measures issued by the US State Department.
The embassy reminded Americans that, on March 2, 2026, the United States ordered the departure of non-emergency US government employees and their eligible family members from Jordan because of regional security concerns.
The advisory continued to discourage travel to military installations in Jordan and advised US citizens to remain alert, particularly in locations associated with American interests.
Regional tensions continue to escalate
The warning comes against the backdrop of escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran, which have significantly increased security concerns across the Middle East.
On Saturday, the US military confirmed that two American service members were killed and another was reported missing following an Iranian attack in Jordan.
Jordan has also reported repeatedly intercepting Iranian missiles crossing its airspace during the recent exchanges between Tehran and Washington, highlighting its strategic position amid the ongoing regional conflict.
Security analysts believe the latest US advisory reflects heightened caution as military tensions continue to evolve across the region.
Travellers urged to monitor developments
Although Jordan has rejected the US Embassy’s warning, travellers are being advised to remain informed through official government channels and airline updates before travelling to Aqaba.
The differing assessments issued by Washington and Amman underline the complexity of the current regional security environment, where intelligence evaluations may vary while authorities continue monitoring developments.
With tensions across the Middle East remaining elevated, security advisories are expected to evolve based on changing ground conditions.
