The United States Embassy in Jerusalem has authorised the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and their families from Israel, citing heightened regional tensions involving Iran and an increasingly volatile security environment. The advisory, issued on Friday, urges American citizens in the country to consider leaving while commercial flights remain available.
In its updated travel guidance, the embassy warned US citizens to avoid travel to sensitive areas, including the Old City of Jerusalem and the West Bank, pointing to risks related to terrorism and civil unrest. Officials said the mission may further restrict movements of US government employees without advance notice as the situation evolves. The advisory underscores concerns that security conditions could deteriorate rapidly.
The embassy specifically instructed personnel not to travel to Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict and terrorism risks and to avoid areas within 11.3 kilometres of the Gaza periphery. Additional restrictions apply to northern Israel near the Lebanese and Syrian borders because of continued military activity, as well as zones close to the Egyptian border except the Taba crossing, which remains open.
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US authorities warned that terrorist groups, lone actors, and violent extremists continue to plot potential attacks across Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. According to the advisory, possible targets could include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping centres, and government facilities. The embassy stressed that attacks could occur with little or no warning.
The warning comes amid rising uncertainty following recent diplomatic developments between Washington and Tehran. Talks held in Geneva between the United States and Iran reportedly concluded without a breakthrough, adding to regional anxiety. Officials have indicated that the security environment in the Middle East remains fluid and could shift quickly depending on geopolitical developments.
The advisory also noted that escalating tensions may disrupt commercial air travel, potentially leading to flight cancellations or reductions. US citizens currently in Israel have been urged to monitor official updates closely and make travel decisions accordingly as the situation continues to unfold across the region.
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