Huckabee Urges US Embassy Staff to Leave Israel Amid Iran Strike Concerns

Amid rising tensions between the United States and Iran, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has instructed American Embassy staff in Israel who wish to leave to “do so TODAY,” according to reports.

In an email sent shortly after midnight, Huckabee urged embassy personnel to book flights immediately and depart as quickly as possible. He warned that airline seats could become scarce and emphasized speed over destination.

“Focus on getting a seat to anyplace from which you can then continue travel to DC,” he wrote, adding that the priority was “getting expeditiously out of the country.”

Huckabee also scheduled a town hall meeting later that day to provide additional updates and guidance to staff.

The directive followed a broader announcement by the US State Department authorizing the departure of non-essential government personnel and their families from Israel. The department also advised US citizens to reconsider travel to Israel and to consider leaving while commercial flights remain available.

The move comes as regional instability intensifies and concerns mount over potential Iranian strikes. While no specific attack was confirmed at the time of the announcement, precautionary measures reflect heightened alert levels across diplomatic channels.

Israel, long accustomed to operating under complex security conditions, continues to maintain a robust defense posture. Its multilayered air defense systems remain active and vigilant, and coordination with allies remains strong.

The United States is not alone in issuing travel warnings.

Canada urged its citizens to leave Iran, citing concerns that commercial flights could become limited. China advised its nationals to avoid travel to Iran and encouraged those currently there to evacuate as soon as possible. Australia instructed dependents of its diplomats in Israel and Lebanon to depart, while also offering voluntary departures to diplomatic families stationed in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Qatar.

In recent months, additional countries including Finland, Serbia, Poland, Sweden, India, Cyprus, Singapore, Germany, and Brazil have cautioned their citizens against traveling to or remaining in certain parts of the Middle East.

These precautionary advisories underscore the seriousness of the current geopolitical climate. Yet they also reflect the reality that Israel remains a central strategic partner for many of these nations, particularly the United States.

Ambassador Huckabee has been vocal about the strength of the US–Israel alliance, frequently describing it as unparalleled. Even as diplomatic families temporarily depart, cooperation between Jerusalem and Washington continues at the highest levels.

Israel’s leadership has consistently emphasized preparedness and coordination with allies in the face of Iranian threats. The Jewish state has proven repeatedly that it possesses both the defensive capability and national resolve to confront challenges head-on.

While travel advisories may fluctuate with circumstances, Israel’s commitment to protecting its citizens and maintaining stability remains constant.

In uncertain times, strong alliances and national unity are critical. Israel continues to stand firm, working closely with its partners to safeguard security and regional stability.

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