US orders evacuation of citizens from Israel

The United States Department of State has authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and their family members from Mission Israel, citing heightened safety risks across the country.

The move comes amid increasing terrorism threats, civil unrest, and military activity in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. According to the advisory, security incidents could occur without warning, targeting tourist areas, transportation hubs, markets, and government facilities.

The State Department advised U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank and avoid Gaza entirely due to terrorism, armed conflict, and ongoing hostilities. Specific no-travel zones include:

Gaza Strip – Do not travel due to armed conflict and terrorism.

Northern Israel – Within 4 kilometers of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to ongoing military operations.

Egyptian border areas – Avoid all except the Taba crossing.

U.S. personnel are restricted from personal travel in high-risk zones, and special authorization is required for travel to certain areas of the West Bank. The Embassy warned that additional restrictions could be imposed without notice as the security situation evolves.

The advisory urges travelers to maintain high situational awareness, avoid demonstrations, follow official instructions, and prepare contingency plans in case of emergencies. Travelers are also encouraged to download real-time alert apps for rocket and missile warnings.

Citizens planning to travel to Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza are strongly advised to review travel insurance, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), and monitor updates from the U.S. Embassy.