US Authorises Departure of Staff from Israel

The United States Department of State has authorised the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their family members from its mission in Israel, citing increasing security risks.

The decision applies to staff under the chief of mission authority and comes amid heightened regional tensions.

Updated Travel Advisory

In its latest advisory, the State Department said the move was taken due to escalating security incidents and the possibility of sudden deterioration in the situation.

The advisory noted that the security environment in cities such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem remains unpredictable. Risks mentioned include rocket and missile fire, armed drone intrusions, and potential terrorist attacks.

The US Embassy in Jerusalem said in a post on X that the departure was authorised on February 27, 2026, due to safety concerns.

The embassy also stated that movement restrictions on US government personnel and their families may be imposed without prior notice.

Advisory to US Citizens

The State Department urged US citizens to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. It continues to maintain a “do not travel” advisory for Gaza, citing ongoing armed conflict and security threats.

The advisory also recommends avoiding travel within 4 kilometres of the Lebanese and Syrian borders and within approximately 11.3 kilometres of the Gaza demarcation line due to continued military activity.

Key Security Warnings

According to the notice:

• Terrorist groups and individuals may carry out attacks with little or no warning.

• Commercial flights could be disrupted if the security situation worsens.

• US government employees face strict travel restrictions, including a ban on personal travel to Gaza and most parts of the West Bank.

• Routine or emergency consular services cannot be provided in Gaza, where border crossings remain closed.

US citizens in the region have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, follow instructions from local authorities, and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.

Ongoing Monitoring

The State Department described the measure as precautionary and said it continues to monitor developments closely.

Further updates are expected depending on how the security situation evolves in Israel and the surrounding region.