US Embassy in Israel issues security alert to employees, families amid tensions with Iran

The US Embassy in Israel issued a security alert on Thursday, June 12, prohibiting its employees and their family members from travelling outside greater Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Be’er Sheva, citing increased regional tensions. In a statement, the embassy stated that travelling between these three locations is still authorised.“Due to the increased regional tensions, US government employees and their family members are restricted from travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva areas until further notice. Transit between these three areas, including to and from Ben Gurion Airport, is authorised. Transiting Route 1 to and from Allenby Bridge is also permitted,” read the statement.

Israel: Due to the increased regional tensions, U.S. government employees and their family members are restricted from travel outside the greater Tel Aviv (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva areas until further notice. Transit between these… pic.twitter.com/cVukGzMsqC

— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) June 12, 2025

It further reminded the US citizens of the constant need for caution and increased personal security awareness, which includes knowing the location of the closest shelter in the case of a red alert, as security incidents such as mortar, rocket, and missile fire and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions frequently occur without warning.
“The security environment is complex and can change quickly. This is provided for your information as you make your own security plans.”In reaction to security incidents and without prior notice, the embassy may further limit or prevent US government personnel and their families from visiting specific regions of Israel (including Jerusalem’s Old City) and the West Bank, it added.

Due to increased regional tensions, the Department of State on Wednesday ordered the departure of non-emergency US government staff.

Iraq: On June 11, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel due to heightened regional tensions. As a reminder, the Travel Advisory for Iraq is Level 4: Do Not Travel. Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed… pic.twitter.com/NYlZhJqQsm

— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) June 12, 2025

According to a Reuters report, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that US forces were being relocated from the Middle East because “it could be a dangerous place,” and that the US will not allow Iran to possess a nuclear weapon.

According to five people familiar with the issue, Israel is planning military action against Iran in the coming days, NBC News reported.