The United States Embassy in Jerusalem has temporarily suspended all operations, including consular services, due to escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran.
In a statement released Tuesday night, the embassy announced it will remain closed from Wednesday, June 18, through Friday, June 20, in accordance with guidance from Israel’s Home Front Command.
This closure also affects the U.S. Consular Sections in both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. During this period, no passport or consular services—including emergency documentation or reports of birth abroad—will be available.
“Given the security situation and in compliance with Israel Home Front Command guidance, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem will be closed tomorrow (Wednesday, June 18) through Friday (June 20),” the embassy confirmed.
Additionally, U.S. government employees and their families in Israel have been instructed to shelter in place, with travel restrictions in effect.
Despite the increasingly volatile situation, the U.S. State Department has not announced any formal evacuation plans for private American citizens. However, the embassy acknowledged that third-party organizations have been assisting U.S. nationals in departing Israel—though these efforts are not officially sanctioned.
American citizens in Israel are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates on security conditions and any potential evacuation options.
As of now, Ben Gurion International Airport remains closed, along with all commercial and charter flight operations. Israeli seaports are also shut down, effectively halting outbound travel from the country.
The embassy’s closure comes amid a sharp escalation in military confrontations between Israel and Iran. Earlier this week, Iran launched missile strikes on the Weizmann Institute of Science, a key Israeli military-linked research facility, and several intelligence targets. In response, Israel carried out precision strikes in Tehran, reportedly killing several senior Iranian commanders.
As the situation continues to evolve, U.S. authorities emphasize the importance of staying informed and following local security guidance.
