The United States (US) has announced urgent evacuation options for American citizens currently in Israel, the West Bank, and Iran.
The move comes in the wake of US military strikes on Iranian targets on Sunday, June 22.
In an alert released by the US Department of State, all U.S. citizens in the region have been advised to leave immediately using any available means, warning that conditions could deteriorate rapidly.
“We are actively assisting Americans seeking to depart from affected areas. Given the evolving security situation, we strongly advise U.S. citizens to take the first available opportunity to leave,” the statement read.
Also Read: Iran Reveals Next Move After US Attack on Fordow
Guidelines for Americans in Iran
With Iran’s airspace closed, departure by land through Armenia, Azerbaijan, or Türkiye is the only option.
Due to a lack of diplomatic ties, the US cannot provide direct evacuation assistance from Iran. Citizens are urged to use available border crossings if it is safe to do so.
“If you plan to leave Iran, the department has opened a crisis intake form for US citizens in Iran to provide information about consular assistance.
“However, because of the limitations on consular support in Iran, we do not anticipate offering direct US government assisted departure from Iran. U.S. citizens seeking departure should take advantage of existing means to leave Iran,” the statement read in part.
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US Limits Services in Israel
At the same time, the US government announced that its embassy in Jerusalem will reopen for limited emergency services on Monday, June 23.
However, emergency passports will be issued for US citizens without valid travel documents while walk-in services will be available in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv for those in line before 8:30 AM.
The notice clarified that routine services such as regular passport processing and birth reports will not be offered.
US citizens have also been warned that Ben Gurion Airport will remain closed, and no commercial or charter flights are operating. As a result, Americans are being urged to consider overland routes and other non-traditional means of exit.
Some third-party groups have reportedly helped U.S. citizens leave Israel by land to Jordan or Egypt, and by sea to Cyprus. Land border crossings into Jordan are also open and scheduled to operate on Sunday, June 22.
These include the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge, as well as the Northern and Southern crossings. Travelers should expect long lines and delays and Israel is charging an exit tax of 180 shekels (approximately $60), which can be paid in cash or by card.
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