U.S. Embassy Security Alert: Heightened Risks in Israel, West Bank, and Gaza
U.S. government employees and their families are restricted from traveling outside the greater Tel Aviv area (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva.
MIDDLE EAST — On June 12, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem issued a security alert due to escalating tensions in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. U.S. citizens face heightened risks from sudden mortar, rocket, and missile fire, as well as unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions.
The alert imposes travel restrictions on U.S. government personnel and urges citizens to take immediate safety measures.
Reported Impacts
Security Incidents: Mortar, rocket, missile fire, and UAS intrusions may occur without warning, posing significant risks to personal safety.
Travel Restrictions: U.S. government employees and their families are restricted from traveling outside the greater Tel Aviv area (including Herzliya, Netanya, and Even Yehuda), Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva until further notice. Authorized transit between these areas, including to Ben Gurion Airport via Route 1, is permitted using personal security vehicles for certain segments.
Potential Escalation: The volatile security environment may lead to additional restrictions, particularly in the Old City of Jerusalem and the West Bank, without advance notice.
Key Statements
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem: "Due to the complex security environment, U.S. citizens should remain vigilant and follow safety protocols."
U.S. Department of State: "Enroll in STEP for real-time updates and know the location of the nearest bomb shelter."
Actionable Safety Steps
U.S. citizens in the affected regions are urged to:
Monitor Updates: Check local media and the U.S. Embassy website (https://il.usembassy.gov) continuously for real-time information.
Prepare for Shelter: Identify the nearest bomb shelter or protected space and be ready to seek cover immediately upon hearing a red alert siren.
Use Technology: Download the Home Front Command Red Alert app for instant notifications of rocket, missile, or UAS threats (available within Israel).
Avoid Risks: Stay clear of demonstrations, large gatherings, and areas with heavy police presence to minimize exposure to potential violence.
Follow Authorities: Comply with all instructions from local Israeli authorities during security incidents.
Enroll in STEP: Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov) to receive security alerts directly.
Respond to Alerts: Treat all red alert sirens as real, seek shelter within seconds, and remain there until instructed otherwise by local officials.
Contact Information
For immediate assistance:
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem: +972-2-630-4000, JerusalemACS@state.gov
U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv: +972-3-519-7575, TelAvivACS@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 (U.S.) or +1-202-501-4444 (international)
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