June 23, 2025: On June 23, Iranian forces confirmed attacks on US bases in Qatar and Iraq as well as airspace closures in several countries in the region. UCEAP continues to monitor regional events and consider the impact on UCEAP programs with assistance from the UC’s security partner, Crisis24.
On June 22, the US State Department issued a Worldwide Caution message due to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Iran. The US involvement in the conflict may affect travel risks in the region. Students registered in STEP likely have received these messages already. All US citizen students are encouraged to register if they have not already done so.
This Caution states: 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 US citizens and interests abroad. The Department of State advises US citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution. Please read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent security alerts when planning travel.
We encourage UCEAP students to read alerts from Crisis24 and maintain vigilance. Any questions can be directed to the International Health, Safety, and Crisis Management Team.
UCEAP does not currently have programs operating in the Middle East. Fall programs in Egypt and Jordan are scheduled to begin in September. We are preemptively reaching out to those students to discuss options. Programs in Israel remain suspended through the 2026-27 Academic Year.
The UCEAP Student Travel Policy prohibits students from traveling to US State Department Travel Advisory Level 4 countries and areas, which includes Israel, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Lebanon. Students should check the Travel Advisory website before making personal travel plans. UCEAP students are required to complete a Travel Sign-Out for any travel outside of their host city.
Per the UCEAP Program Cancelation Policy, we will continue to operate programs in US State Department Travel Advisory Level 1, 2, and 3 countries and areas. If a country level is increased to a Level 4, UCEAP would follow the UCEAP Program Cancelation Policy.
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.