Trending Now - US Advises Citizens to Evacuate Middle East Amid Rising Tensions
WHO:
U.S. State Department
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee
U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem
Israeli Ministry of Tourism
WHAT:
The U.S. State Department advises Americans to "depart now via commercial means" from the Middle East.
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem stated it is "not in a position at this time to evacuate or directly assist Americans in departing Israel."
Huckabee described the "best option" for Americans to flee Israel as utilizing Israel's Ministry of Tourism shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt.
Huckabee mentioned that there are "very limited" options available for evacuation.
The U.S. Embassy cannot guarantee safety for those choosing to use the Ministry of Tourism’s shuttle.
WHERE:
Israel
Taba, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt
Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, Israel
Allenby crossing (border crossing to Jordan)
WHEN:
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem made its statement on March 1, 2026.
Huckabee's comments were made on March 1, 2026.
The U.S. Embassy announced it would be closed on March 2, 2026.
The missile strikes from Iran occurred on February 28, 2026.
WHY:
The advisory for evacuation comes amid rising tensions and ongoing strikes in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the U.S.
HOW:
Americans are advised to register via the Israeli Ministry of Tourism’s evacuation form to be added to the shuttle passenger list.
Huckabee recommended traveling to Taba for flights or continuing to Cairo for flights back to the U.S.
The U.S. State Department is urging Americans to leave the Middle East immediately, stating that the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem is unable to assist with evacuations at this time. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has recommended that Americans utilize the Israeli Ministry of Tourism's shuttle bus to Taba, Egypt, although he cautioned that options for evacuation are very limited and safety cannot be guaranteed. This advisory follows recent missile strikes from Iran and reflects the escalating tensions in the region.