The U.S
By Bernard Moerdler,
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has issued a security alert urging Americans in Israel to exercise caution and heightened vigilance, saying the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation.
Americans should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures and travel disruptions, the embassy said, noting that some airlines in the region have postponed the resumption of earlier schedules and others have cancelled routes. Travelers were advised to check departure status directly with their airline or through the Israel Airports Authority flight boards. Americans outside the Middle East should reconsider travel to and through the region, the embassy said.
U.S. diplomatic facilities, including outside the Middle East, have been targeted, according to the alert, which said Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas, including businesses and institutions. The State Department authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members from Mission Israel on February 27. The consular sections at the Jerusalem embassy and the Tel Aviv branch office remain open for routine and emergency services.
The embassy advised Americans to know the location of their nearest shelter or protected space and to download the IDF Home Front Command application to receive real-time alerts. It also advised keeping a supply of food, water and medications, avoiding demonstrations, large gatherings and areas with a heavy police presence, monitoring local media, following the instructions of local authorities, exercising caution at locations publicly associated with the United States, and keeping a low profile.
The embassy listed emergency contacts as 100 for Israel Police and 101 for ambulance service, JerusalemACS@state.gov and TelAvivACS@state.gov for consular assistance, and the State Department Consular Affairs Call Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada or +1-202-501-4444 from abroad.
Topics: Iran, IDF, Diplomacy
Reported by Bernard Moerdler for Bernie News Network. See our editorial standards and corrections policy.