By Gloria Nosa
The United States has urged its embassy staff in Israel to consider leaving the country without delay, warning that the fragile security situation could deteriorate rapidly amid rising tensions with Iran.
US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, reportedly told embassy personnel that those intending to depart should act “today,” stressing that the advice was purely precautionary and not meant to cause alarm. He noted that outbound flights could soon become fully booked and encouraged staff to secure seats to any available destination, especially those offering onward connections to Washington.
Earlier, the US Embassy had formally approved the departure of non-essential staff and their family members, citing growing safety concerns. In a statement published on its official website, the embassy advised American personnel and their relatives to consider leaving Israel while commercial flight options remain accessible.
The advisory comes as Washington strengthens its military posture in the Middle East. The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is expected to arrive in waters near northern Israel as part of heightened readiness measures. Reports also indicate that advanced F-22 Raptor fighter jets have either been deployed or are en route to southern Israel, with aerial refuelling aircraft positioned at Ben Gurion International Airport to support potential operations.
These moves follow renewed diplomatic engagement between US and Iranian officials in Geneva, facilitated by Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr Al Busaidi. The discussions focused on Iran’s nuclear programme, with US negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, reportedly pushing for the complete dismantling of Iran’s major nuclear facilities such as Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Iran, however, is said to favour a temporary halt to enrichment activities rather than permanent restrictions.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, military preparations remain under consideration. Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, has briefed President Donald Trump on possible military scenarios involving Iran, reflecting growing concerns that diplomacy may fail to ease tensions.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has also taken precautionary measures, temporarily withdrawing its embassy staff from Iran due to the uncertain security environment. British authorities acknowledged that their ability to assist nationals inside Iran is now severely limited, as embassy operations have shifted to remote support without in-person consular services.
The developments underscore mounting fears of a possible military confrontation between the United States and Iran, even as both sides continue negotiations aimed at preventing open conflict.
