The U.S. Embassy in Israel has issued a security alert for citizens abroad and U.S. government employees as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies.
Federal employees and their families are urged to shelter in place until further notice, officials said, and plans are currently being developed for private citizens from the U.S. who are looking to leave Israel or the West Bank.
The State Department says U.S. citizens will be alerted if additional information about departures becomes available.
The federal government stresses that it does not provide direct transportation back to the U.S., but rather to a nearby country with safer conditions.
“You will be responsible for your onward travel after arriving in the nearby, safe country,” the security alert reads. Those leaving will also need to sign a promissory note to repay the government for the cost of travel, although payment is not needed before boarding.
U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who currently reside in Israel or the West Bank should complete a “crisis intake” form on the State Department website for timely updates and additional assistance.
The Iran–Israel conflict has escalated sharply in recent weeks, with both nations trading airstrikes and missile attacks.
Israel has targeted Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure, while Iranian forces have launched drones and missiles at Israeli cities, hitting civilian sites.
President Donald Trump has made his support for Israel clear, and the U.S. is currently weighing whether to intervene with the military, while the international community has called for diplomacy to de-escalate growing the crisis.
