'Very Limited Options': US Embassy in Israel says it cannot evacuate Americans as Iran war rages

Jerusalem: Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, the US Embassy in Jerusalem on Tuesday has issued a detailed advisory for American citizens who are currently in Israel and also warned that departure options are "very limited" due to the ongoing security situation in the region.

Who has issued the advisory?

US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, in a post on X said that the best available route at present is to use shuttle buses operated by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism to the Taba.

"For American who are currently in Israel I want to share this thorough (but long) update on options for departing.  There are VERY LIMITED options. As of now, the best is utilizing Israel's Ministry of Tourism shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt and getting flights from there or going on to Cairo for flights back to the US. I will give details of that option below," he wrote.

The advisory comes at a time when there are uncertainness regarding the reopening of Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. 

While sharing the uncertainty about reopening of the airport, Huckabee said,"  All of our personnel from embassy are sheltering in place, but I realize you may need to get people out and back home and not continue to incur hotel costs.  I’m adding what we are recommending for now.  Not sure when Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv will reopen.  Hopefully soon, but even when it does, there will be VERY limited flights with priorities to those who already were ticketed by El Al.  Doubtful that other airlines will fly in/out for a while."

Sharing details about the best available route at present, he said that to use shuttle buses operated by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism to the Taba.

"The Ministry of Tourism is operating buses to Taba. That crossing is further away but it’s open 24/7.  There are some flights from Taba, but there are also options to get to Cairo and it’s operating normally except to Middle Eastern countries. To get out, it’s the best option for now. If not already enrolled in STEP program, do so as you will be emailed updated information from the embassy and State Department. A link to Step is at bottom of message. Praying your safe passage!," he added.

What did the Embassy say?

The US Embassy in Jerusalem in an official statement on Tuesday said that  it is not currently in a position to evacuate or directly assist private US citizens in departing Israel, urging Americans to make their own security plans.

"The US Embassy is not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel," it said in an official statement.

"The US Embassy reminds US citizens of the continued need for caution and increased personal security awareness – including knowing the location of the nearest shelter in the event of a red alert as security incidents, such as mortar, rocket, and missile fire, and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) intrusions, often take place without any warning," it said.

What did Huckabee say about flights?

"I do not recommend exit via Jordan at this time. Flights are not consistent and access across the Allenby crossing has limited hours.” US Ambassador to Israel wrote.

The land crossing at Taba into Egypt is operating 24 hours a day, according to the embassy. 

In the tweet, Huckabee also shared that some travelers may be required to pay a visa fee, though US citizens remaining within the Sinai region are exempt. Security conditions could change without notice, potentially affecting border access.

The US Embassy also reminded safety precautions and urged Americans to remain vigilant, know the location of the nearest shelter, and treat all “red alert” sirens as real threats due to the risk of rocket, missile, or drone attacks.