Penn has advised students to defer travel and transit through the Middle East until further notice, following rising regional tensions and potential “travel disruption.”
According to a March 2 alert from Penn Global, University-affiliated undergraduate travel to the region will also be prohibited through March 15, at which point the ban will be reevaluated. The alert cited risks including “military operations, airspace closures, and general travel disruption” as a result of the United States’ ongoing conflict with Iran.
The guidance is based on recommendations from the Department of State and International SOS, Penn’s travel assistance provider. Travelers currently in the region are advised to seek shelter and remain in contact with Penn officials.
A Penn Global spokesperson wrote to The Daily Pennsylvanian that they are “sharing the most up-to-date travel guidance for Penn students and scholars with activities in the Middle East and North Africa region.”
Penn offers multiple opportunities to study and engage with the Middle East through language courses and abroad programs.
“We will continue to update this information as the situation develops,” the spokesperson added.
The travel advisory comes as tensions in the region escalate following recent developments involving Iran, prompting security concerns that could affect international travel routes. American drones struck several targets in Iran in the early hours of Feb 28. under the direction of 1968 Wharton graduate and President Donald Trump.
“The conflict in the Middle East is expected to continue for at least the next month,” the Penn Global webpage reads. “The situation is unsettling and impacts many in our community.”
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Campus groups and centers reacted swiftly to the bombing, with leaders of Perry World House, Penn Washington, and multiple professors making public comments on the consequences of the conflict. Penn’s Center for Ethics and the Rule of Law — as well as PWH — also hosted panels on March 3.
The guidance comes amid a series of recent travel advisories affecting Penn’s international and abroad communities. In December 2025, International Student and Scholar Services — which is overseen by Penn Global — warned students about potential disruptions to U.S. entry rules and travel.
At the time, ISSS urged potentially impacted students to avoid non-essential international travel and to consult advisors before leaving the country.
Penn Global’s webpage now explains that outside of the “Middle East region,” travel can “proceed with additional precautions,” and be prepared for heightened security and potential protests.
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Staff reporter Luke Petersen covers national politics and can be reached at petersen@thedp.com. At Penn, he studies philosophy, politics, and economics. Follow him on X @LukePetersen06.
Staff reporter Mishal George covers University finances and can be reached at george@thedp.com. At Penn, she studies journalism and political science. Follow her on X @mishalgeorgee.
