In a significant escalation of safety protocols, the US Department of State officially authorised the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their family members from its embassy in Israel on Friday.
The decision comes as the region faces an increasingly volatile security environment as the US and Iran continue negotiations on its nuclear programme. The US has mobilised a massive naval build-up in the region, while Iran has threatened to attack US bases in neighbouring countries if America attacks the country.
Departure and travel restrictions
While the departure is currently "authorised" (voluntary) rather than "ordered" (mandatory), the State Department’s updated advisory warns that the US Embassy may restrict or prohibit the movement of its employees and their families without advance notice.
In a direct appeal to private citizens, the Department stated that individuals currently in the region "may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available," noting that increased regional tensions often lead to sudden airline cancellations.
The authorisation comes a few days after the US requested the removal for ‘precautionary reasons’ of non-essential personnel from its embassy in Beirut.
On February 27, 2026, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of U.S. government personnel from Mission Israel due to safety risks.
— U.S. Embassy Jerusalem (@usembassyjlm) February 27, 2026
In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S.… pic.twitter.com/aWzX6Gk36x
High-risk zones and "Do not travel" areas
The advisory maintains strict "Do Not Travel" warnings for several flashpoints:
- Gaza: Total travel prohibition due to armed conflict and terrorism. The Erez and Rafah crossings remain closed to the general public.
- Northern Israel: Areas within 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) of the Lebanese and Syrian borders are strictly off-limits due to active military presence.
- The Egyptian Border: Travel is restricted within 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) of the border, excluding the Taba crossing.
The rest of Israel and the West Bank remain under a "Reconsider Travel" advisory. Officials cited the unpredictable nature of "lone-actor" attacks and the potential for rocket fire or armed UAV (drone) intrusions targeting tourist hubs, markets, and transportation centres.
Guidelines for US citizens
For those who remain in the country, the State Department has issued rigorous safety mandates:
- Shelter Readiness: Citizens are urged to identify their nearest bomb shelter and download the Home Front Command Red Alert application for real-time missile warnings.
- Contingency Planning: Travelers should draft wills, designate beneficiaries, and even leave DNA samples with medical providers in case of emergency.
- Enrollment: Americans are strongly encouraged to join the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure they can be located and assisted during a crisis.