State Department issues "Global Alert" for Citizens

State Department issued a "worldwide caution" for Americans on Sunday, saying the conflict in the Middle East could put those traveling or living abroad at an increased security risk.

"The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East. There is the potential for demonstrations against citizens and interests abroad," the State Department's security alert said. "The Department of State advises citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution."

The statement made no mention of the intervening in the conflict overnight when planes bombed nuclear facilities in Iran, a move that Tehran said would have "irreparable consequences."

Iran threatened on Sunday US bases in the Middle East and warned that US forces could be attacked in retaliation for the unprecedented air strikes that the Pentagon said devastated Iran's nuclear program.

State Department on Saturday began evacuation flights from Israel for American citizens and permanent residents living in Israel or the West Bank. It also ordered staff at its diplomatic missions in Iraq and Lebanon to leave those countries.