The United States Embassy in Jerusalem has told American citizens in Israel to make their own security and departure arrangements, warning that it is currently unable to assist with evacuations amid escalating regional hostilities.
In a sharply worded advisory issued Monday, the embassy said the security situation remains “volatile and unpredictable” following recent U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks by Tehran across the region.
It directed embassy staff and their families to remain close to shelters and cautioned private U.S. citizens to heighten vigilance.
“The U.S. Embassy is not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel,” the statement said.
The mission warned that further movement restrictions could be imposed on U.S. government personnel if conditions deteriorate. It also reminded Americans to familiarize themselves with the location of the nearest shelter in case of a red alert, noting that mortar, rocket, missile fire and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions can occur without warning.
While distancing itself from direct evacuation efforts, the embassy pointed to alternative exit options.
It said Israel’s Ministry of Tourism has arranged shuttle services to selected departure points, including the Taba Border Crossing into Egypt.
Americans seeking to travel to Jordan were advised they could take a shuttle to Eilat and then proceed by taxi to the Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing. Buses are reportedly stationed at designated meeting points nationwide, including the Herzliya Train Station parking lot.
However, the embassy stressed that it cannot endorse the shuttle program or guarantee the safety of those who choose to use it.
“The U.S. Embassy cannot make any recommendation for or against the Ministry of Tourism’s shuttle, If you choose to avail yourself of this option to depart, the U.S. government cannot guarantee your safety.” the advisory said.
Echoing the urgency, Assistant Secretary Mora Namdar urged Americans in affected countries to leave immediately using available commercial transportation, citing serious safety risks.
The advisory marks one of the clearest signals yet that Washington expects private citizens to take primary responsibility for their own security as tensions across the Middle East continue to mount.