Mike Huckabee, the US Ambassador to Israel, has advised American embassy staff in Israel that anyone wishing to leave the country should do so “today,” citing rising regional tensions and the possibility of a strike involving Iran.
According to a source familiar with the message, Huckabee stressed there was “no reason to panic,” describing the guidance as a precautionary step taken out of an abundance of caution. He warned that outbound flights could fill up quickly and urged personnel to book tickets to any available destination with onward connections to Washington.
Earlier on Friday, the United States Embassy in Israel announced it had authorised the departure of non-essential staff and family members due to security concerns. A notice on the embassy’s website encouraged individuals to consider leaving while commercial flights remain operational.
The advisory comes as the US bolsters its military presence in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is expected to arrive near northern Israel as part of broader preparations amid escalating tensions with Iran.
In addition, F-22 Raptor aircraft have reportedly been deployed to southern Israel or are en route, with aerial refuelling planes positioned at Ben Gurion International Airport.
The developments follow renewed high-level talks between Washington and Tehran aimed at securing a new nuclear agreement. Discussions, mediated by Badr Al Busaidi, were held in Geneva on Thursday.
US officials, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have reportedly pushed for the full dismantling of Iran’s key nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, along with permanent limits on uranium enrichment. Iran is said to favour a temporary suspension lasting several years.
Despite ongoing diplomacy, United States Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper has briefed President Donald Trump on potential military options involving Iran.
The US State Department has not issued further public comment on the embassy advisory.
