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JERUSALEM (The Uttam Hindu): Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, the US Embassy in Israel issued an official advisory on Tuesday advising American citizens to make their own security arrangements.
In its statement, the embassy warned that the security situation remains fluid and the future remains unpredictable. It also urged citizens to take care of themselves.
"The US Embassy is not in a position to assist Americans with evacuation or direct departure from Israel at this time," the statement said. It added, "The Embassy continues to advise US citizens to exercise caution and remain vigilant about their personal security. We urge them to proceed to the nearest shelter in the event of a red alert, as incidents such as mortar, rocket, and missile fire, and incursions by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), often occur without warning."
The embassy stated that, given the current situation, it may, at any time without prior notice, impose restrictions on the movement of U.S. government employees and their family members. This could include restricting or prohibiting travel to specific areas within Israel, such as the Old City of Jerusalem and the West Bank. Providing travel information, the embassy stated that the Israeli Tourism Ministry has resumed a shuttle service to the Taba border crossing starting March 2.
US citizens who wish to use this service can add their names to the passenger list using the Ministry's evacuation form. However, the Embassy clarified that it cannot offer any advice for or against using the shuttle service. The US Embassy stated, "The Embassy cannot offer any advice (for or against) the Ministry of Tourism's shuttle. The US Government cannot guarantee your safety if you use this option to leave Israel." The statement added, "This information is being shared as a courtesy for those wishing to leave Israel."
For those who wish to continue to Jordan, the embassy advised that travelers can take a shuttle to Eilat and then travel by taxi to the Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing on their own. It added that buses will be available at designated meeting points across the country, including parking areas in Herzliya, Haifa, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv.
The embassy also urged citizens to consult the Israel Home Front Command's guidelines before traveling to any border crossing, and to stay updated on official security instructions as the situation changes.