US Embassy issues security update after Manama hotel attack

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The US Embassy in the Kingdom of Bahrain has issued Security Update No. 5 following the attack on the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manama yesterday, which resulted in injuries.

In its advisory, the embassy urged American citizens in Bahrain to avoid staying in hotels in Manama, noting that such locations could be potential targets for future attacks

. As a precautionary measure, it announced that US government employees had been relocated from hotel accommodations.

The embassy called on US nationals to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to safety guidelines.

Shelter

It advised individuals to take immediate shelter upon hearing explosions or sirens, move to the lowest floor of a building away from windows and exterior walls, or seek a reinforced structure if outdoors.

If no suitable shelter is available, individuals were advised to lie flat on the ground and cover their heads.

The advisory also warned of the continued risk of falling debris, even in cases where missiles or drones are successfully intercepted.

Information

Citizens were urged to avoid approaching any remnants of attacks and to rely on official sources for verified information and guidance.

The embassy encouraged American nationals to monitor its website for updates and to enroll in the US State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts and facilitate communication during emergencies.

It noted that Bahraini emergency services can be reached by calling 999, and that the embassy’s Consular Affairs Section remains available through designated contact channels.

Citizens were further advised to avoid gatherings, demonstrations and areas with a heavy security presence, and to follow the instructions of local authorities.

Departure

In a separate update, the embassy confirmed that it has authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency US government employees and their family members.

It also raised its travel advisory for Bahrain to Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” citing security risks.

The embassy stated that the decision follows regional developments that began on February 28, 2026, including ongoing threats of drone and missile attacks and significant disruptions to commercial air traffic.

Risks

It noted that security assessments indicate persistent risks related to terrorism, with the possibility of attacks occurring without prior or with limited warning, potentially targeting tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping centers, places of worship, as well as government and military facilities.

The embassy said it continues to closely monitor the situation and urged US citizens to consult the State Department’s country information page for Bahrain for the latest updates.