March 5, 2026: On February 28, Israel and United States began strikes in Iran. As of March 5, joint US–Israeli operations continues to drive rapid regional escalation, including Iranian drone/missile retaliation against multiple Gulf states and continued Israel–Hizballah cross-border strikes. Regional air travel remains highly degraded by rolling airspace closures and airport suspensions. This ongoing conflict in the Middle East may have far reaching repercussions, including protests and anti-American sentiment. Our International Health, Safety, and Crisis Management Team continues to monitor global impacts along with security guidance from US Department of State and UC’s security partner, Crisis24. We also acknowledge that you may have personal circumstances that result in this conflict affecting you more directly. This email contains information about UCEAP resources and reminders about UCEAP policies.
You are registered to receive emails from Crisis24, the UC security vendor. Please pay attention to these emails as they will alert you to security risks, such as protests, occurring in your city. They will also share guidance around managing your safety. This advice sheet provides general information about personal safety during civil unrest.
You have access to 20 Lyra virtual mental health sessions while abroad. You can sign up here. The student travel insurance also provides a 24/7 US based crisis phone line for any student experiencing a mental health crisis. You can reach this service by calling +1-630-694-9804 and asking for “remote behavioral health crisis consult.”
You must comply with UCEAP Student Travel Policy and a Waiver of Liability form is required when independent travel is to US State Department Level 3 or 4 countries. As of March 4, UC System Travel Advisories restricts all nonessential travel (this includes any UCEAP student independent travel) to Ukraine, Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen) During UCEAP program participation you cannot travel to these locations for independent travel until these restrictions are lifted.
You can enroll at https://step.state.gov to receive the latest security alerts and follow the “U.S. Department of State - Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp. On February 28, the US Department of State issued the following Worldwide Caution:You can enroll at https://step.state.gov to receive the latest security alerts and follow the “U.S. Department of State - Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp. On February 28, the US Department of State issued the following Worldwide Caution:
Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures. The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution. To locate the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate visit the Department of State webpage and enter the name of the country you are in or plan to travel to or through.
Please take care in prioritizing your personal safety and wellbeing. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Our team can be reached at ihscm@uceap.universityofcalifornia.edu.
Resources
Chubb-AXA Global Travel Assistance can also connect you with a mental health counselor immediately by phone through their Crisis Intervention service if you are in emotional distress. For longer-term treatment the counselor can work with the AXA referral team to find an English-speaking local therapist for ongoing treatment.
UCEAP partners with Lyra, a global mental health service provider, to offer 20 mental health counseling sessions during your program. You can connect with Lyra in person, by video, or by phone. Lyra maintains an online library of videos, articles, strategies, and meditations if you prefer a DIY approach. You can access Lyra services through instructions in your UCEAP Portal. No paperwork or fees are required to receive counseling.
Tips
UCEAP strongly advises against participating in or attending any protests or demonstrations. Even peaceful demonstrations can become unpredictable, and safety cannot be guaranteed in such situations.
If you happen to come upon a protest or demonstration, here are some tips on what to do from Crisis24, the UCEAP Security Provider:
- Remain calm, the demonstrators don't know who you are and will believe you're part of their protest. Be confident but don’t draw attention to yourself.
- Walk with them and mimic the actions of the group, but slowly move to the edge of the crowd and stay away from the aggressors and ring leaders.
- Look for a safe exit away from the crowd and slowly walk away, don’t run—this will bring attention to yourself.
- If you're caught up in the dense crowd, stay away from any glass shop windows and doors, stay firm on your feet, and move with the flow until you're able to move off in a safe direction.
- Should you be mistaken by the police or security forces as a demonstrator and arrested, do exactly as they say and don't resist. Contact your embassy/consulate and Study Center Staff/UCEAP for assistance.
General Safety Tips
- Stay informed: Keep yourself updated with the latest news and developments in your region. Use reputable news sources and consider downloading local news apps for real-time updates.
- Follow local authorities' instructions: Always abide by the guidance and instructions given by local authorities, including your program coordinators, host institution, and local law enforcement agencies.
- Maintain a low profile: While it's important to embrace cultural experiences and engage with local communities, avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public places. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Emergency contacts: Make sure you have emergency contact information readily available, including the contact details of your Study Center/ international office staff and the nearest embassy or consulate. Consider printing out the emergency contact information in case Wi-Fi or cell service is unavailable.