US authorizes departure of non-essential staff from Israel

The US Department of State has authorised the voluntary departure of certain US government employees and their family members from Israel amid growing security concerns, according to updated travel guidance issued on February 27.

As reported by Iran International, the authorisation applies to personnel not involved in emergency or essential operations. The department said the decision was taken in response to an evolving security environment and warned that the US Embassy could further restrict or completely prohibit travel by US government staff to specific areas without prior notice.

The advisory noted that additional limitations may apply to travel within Israel, including the Old City of Jerusalem, as well as to parts of the West Bank.

US citizens were urged to reconsider travel plans to Israel and the West Bank due to risks linked to terrorism and civil unrest, while travel to the Gaza Strip was strongly discouraged because of ongoing armed conflict and terrorism threats. The guidance also advised avoiding areas within four kilometres of Israel’s borders with Lebanon and Syria, as well as locations within 11.3 kilometres of the Gaza border.

The State Department emphasised that the security situation remains volatile and can change rapidly, with violence potentially occurring without warning. US citizens currently in Israel were advised to remain alert, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and review personal emergency and evacuation plans.

By Tamilla Hasanova