U.S. embassy in Djibouti cancels routine consular services amid security concerns

The U.S. Embassy in Djibouti has suspended routine consular appointments and instructed staff to avoid areas near the diplomatic compound and a nearby U.S. military installation following heightened regional tensions, according to a security alert issued Sunday.

Embassy personnel have been directed to stay away from the vicinity of the mission and Camp Lemonnier, the primary U.S. military base in the Horn of Africa, until further notice. Despite the restrictions, the embassy said “it remains operational and continues to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the country.”

The embassy noted that there is “no specific information indicating a direct or imminent threat to Americans or U.S. interests in Djibouti.” Nevertheless, U.S. citizens were urged to exercise increased caution, closely monitor local developments, and maintain heightened personal security awareness. The embassy advised Americans to avoid large gatherings and areas with heavy security presence and to carry identification at all times.

The advisory comes amid what the embassy described as “heightened regional tensions,” without detailing the precise source of concern. The warning follows a series of Iranian strikes targeting U.S. military installations across the Gulf region.

The attacks began after the United States and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury, a coordinated military campaign targeting sites across Iran. The strikes resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Within hours of the operation, Iran began retaliatory attacks, launching waves of missiles and drones at U.S. military facilities across the Middle East.

One of the retaliatory strikes targeted Al Asad Air Base in Iraq, where several missiles were launched at the installation. Several explosions were confirmed. In northern Iraq, U.S. facilities in Erbil were also targeted by missile and drone attacks. Although air defense systems intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, explosions were reported nearby. In the Gulf, Al Dhafra Air Base was targeted by long-range drones. Meanwhile, at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, missiles were intercepted before impact and no casualties were reported.

The broader regional impact included air raid sirens, restricted airspace, and heightened military alert levels across Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, and several Gulf states. Iran pursued a strategy of sustained, smaller-scale strikes, deploying repeated waves of missiles and drones rather than a single overwhelming barrage, designed to strain and complicate defensive responses.

Iran’s ability to target U.S. bases across multiple countries underlines its intent to project power beyond its borders. One area of concern is Djibouti, where U.S. forces at Camp Lemonnier play a critical role in counterterrorism and regional operations. While a direct Iranian strike on the base unlikely due to distance and logistical constraints, the risk cannot be entirely dismissed given the rapidly evolving conflict.

The suspension of routine consular services in Djibouti highlights the broader ripple effects of the escalating confrontation. Even in countries not directly involved in the hostilities, U.S. diplomatic and military facilities are reassessing security measures amid fears of further retaliation.