(DCWatchdog.com) – Fearing its political representatives being attacked by Islamist terrorists, the United States has restricted the movements of its diplomats in Israel to ensure their safety amid escalating tensions.
The U.S. Embassy said that security concerns potentially linked to Iranian declarations of retaliation for an Israeli strike have curtailed the personal movement of its government employees and their families.
“Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel” outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheeva areas “until further notice,” an embassy notice said.
The U.S. Embassy continued in the notice, “The security environment remains complex and can change quickly depending on the political situation and recent events.”
This precaution follows more than six months into the conflict between Israel and Hamas and comes after Israel targeted an Iranian diplomatic facility in Damascus early this month.
The attack resulted in the deaths of seven members of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards, which included two generals. Amidst this backdrop, Israel has gone for potential retaliatory acts.
Moreover, the White House has reiteratеd its support for Israel, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaching out to international counterparts and urging them to pеrsuade Iran against further escalations.
The embassy’s noticеs have underscored the unpredictability of security incidents, which can arisе abruptly and significantly alter the safety landscape.
The embassy emphasizеd the importance of vigilancе and maintaining a high level of personal security awareness for U.S. citizens who live or travel in Israel.
In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel (including the Old City of Jerusalem) and the West Bank.
Furthermore, guidelines have been provided on how to react to mortar or “rocket fire,” which included heeding “red alert” sirens, seeking immediate shelter, and familiarizing oneself with the nearest protected space.
The instructions also recommend downloading applications like the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command app for real-time security and safety alerts and underscore the embassy’s commitment to the well-being of U.S. nationals amid the ongoing conflict.
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