As the regional conflict with Iran intensifies, the U.S. State Department has begun evacuating nonessential government personnel and their families from Israel, underscoring the growing security concerns in the region. The move comes as President Trump reportedly weighs options for a stronger American response to the escalating violence.
A U.S. government aircraft departed Israel on Wednesday, carrying diplomats and family members who had requested to leave, according to the Associated Press, which cited two U.S. officials familiar with the operation. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, did not disclose the number of evacuees or whether others had exited the country via land routes.
In a statement distributed to various media outlets, the State Department confirmed the evacuation efforts were underway as part of the embassy’s authorized departure status.
“Given the ongoing situation and as part of the embassy’s authorized departure status, mission personnel have begun departing Israel through a variety of means,” the statement read.
The move follows an earlier announcement by the State Department on Saturday, authorizing the departure of family members of U.S. government personnel and nonessential employees, citing “the volatile and unpredictable security situation in the region.”
In remarks delivered earlier this week, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said the embassy was actively assisting American citizens in departing the country, emphasizing the importance of enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely updates and emergency information.
“We are encouraging all U.S. citizens in Israel to ensure they are registered in STEP and monitoring State Department advisories closely,” Huckabee said. “The safety of our citizens is our top priority.”
The decision to begin evacuations signals a notable shift in the U.S. posture as hostilities between Israel and Iran deepen. Although the precise scope of the U.S. response remains unclear, sources indicate the White House is actively discussing further diplomatic and military options should the conflict escalate further.
At present, the State Department maintains a strong travel advisory against visiting Israel, warning of the heightened risk of armed conflict, acts of terrorism, and civil unrest. Commercial airline service in and out of the country has been severely disrupted, with several international carriers canceling flights amid fears of missile strikes or broader regional warfare.
The U.S. Embassy in Israel has been closed since earlier this week and will remain shut through Friday, according to officials. American citizens in Israel are being urged to exercise extreme caution and to monitor official communications for guidance.
As the situation remains fluid, U.S. officials are expected to reassess travel guidance and staffing levels at diplomatic facilities in the region on a daily basis.
Key Updates:
Evacuations follow State Department authorization for departure of nonemergency staff and families.
President Trump is reviewing options for increased U.S. involvement.
U.S. Embassy in Israel remains closed through Friday.
Commercial air travel to Israel is disrupted.
