U.S. Embassy in Israel says ‘nonemergency’ personnel can go away amid rigidity over Iran’s nuke posture

The U.S. Embassy in Israel on Friday told some American staffers and their family members that they could leave the country amid the rise in tension with Iran. 

Along with allowing embassy staff who are designated as “nonemergency U.S. government personnel” to leave the country, the U.S. mission in Israel said anyone considering traveling to Israel should reconsider due to the potential for terrorism.

“Terrorist groups, lone actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza,” embassy officials said in a statement. “Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls and local government facilities.”

U.S. and Iranian negotiators in Geneva concluded their discussions on Thursday about a final deal, with claims of “significant progress” by mediators. They agreed to continue technical talks in Vienna next week.

“Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available,” the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem said.

“Those wishing to take AD should do so TODAY,” U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee wrote, using an acronym for “authorized departure,” to embassy personnel. “While there may be outbound flights over the coming days, there may not be,” he added.

SEE ALSO: ‘Significant progress’ cited in third round of Iran nuclear talks as U.S. forces poised to strike

The U.S. has significantly strengthened its naval presence in the Middle East, with the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier positioned in the Persian Gulf region and the even bigger carrier USS Gerald R. Ford operating in the Mediterranean Sea. It gives the U.S. a rare dual-carrier presence in the region.

Israel Defense Forces officials said on Friday they are in a high state of alert. 

“I am aware of the sense of uncertainty and the tension prevailing in the public in light of the regional developments,” Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, an IDF spokesman, said on X. “The IDF is closely monitoring the situation in Iran and is alert and ready to defend you.”

• This article was based in part on wire service reports.