The United States Embassy in Jerusalem has advised its personnel and their families to evacuate Israel due to heightened security risks linked to potential escalations involving Iran. This decision was reported by The New York Times.
In a communication to staff, Ambassador Mike Huckabee stated that the measure was taken “out of an abundance of caution” following consultations with the State Department. He emphasized that the safety of employees is a top priority.
Those wishing to leave are urged to do so “today” and to secure any available flights from Ben Gurion Airport. Huckabee cautioned that demand for tickets may increase and the availability of flights could become limited.
“There is no need to panic, but it is important for those who wish to leave to plan as early as possible,” Huckabee noted.
Israel may be a potential target for retaliation by Iran or its allies should the United States engage in military action against Iran.
Background on US-Iran Tensions
Indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran last year yielded no results, primarily due to the US demand for Iran to fully abandon uranium enrichment on its territory. Iran has consistently denied any intention to develop nuclear weapons.
Earlier reports from CBS News indicated that President Donald Trump held a national security meeting regarding a potential military operation against Iran.
Subsequently, the President warned that “very bad things could happen” if Iran does not reach an agreement with the United States regarding its nuclear program and fully cease uranium enrichment.
On February 3, US military forces shot down an Iranian drone that had “aggressively approached” the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea. On the same day, vessels from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps approached a US tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to seize it.
On February 6, US authorities urged American citizens to leave Iran immediately due to deteriorating security conditions in the country.
Tehran has informed the United Nations that it would target US bases if the US strikes Iran.
Other Countries Advise Citizens to Leave Iran
Earlier today, the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also advised its citizens to avoid travel to Iran and to leave the country immediately if it can be done safely.
This follows reports that China has urged its citizens to evacuate Iran due to worsening security conditions and increasing external risks.
The US Embassy in Jerusalem has recommended that its staff evacuate Israel due to rising security threats related to Iran. This follows heightened tensions and calls from other nations for their citizens to leave Iran amid concerns over potential military actions.