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