US Embassy in Jerusalem closes amid ongoing tensions

The temporary shutdown includes the consular sections in both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, halting services such as passport issuance and consular reports of birth abroad. “We have no announcement about assisting private US citizens to depart at this time,” the embassy stated. However, officials emphasized that contingency planning is underway should evacuations become necessary. “We will alert the US citizen community if there is additional information to share regarding departure options,” the alert added.

US citizens in the region are urged to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates.

Complicating any potential departure efforts, Ben Gurion Airport remains shut down, with no commercial or charter flights operating. Israel’s seaports have also ceased operations amid the escalating hostilities.

Former Arkansas Governor and current US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee remained at the embassy despite damage caused by nearby Iranian missile strikes. “Some minor damage from concussions of Iranian missile hits near the Embassy Branch in Tel Aviv, but no injuries to U.S. personnel,” Huckabee confirmed Monday, after Iran launched another ballistic missile barrage at central Israel.

Huckabee, who is also a Baptist minister, praised Trump’s leadership during the crisis. “Mr. President, God spared you in Butler, PA to be the most consequential President in a century—maybe ever... No President in my lifetime has been in a position like yours. Not since Truman 1945.”

In a message sent to Trump, Huckabee expressed his steadfast commitment to remaining at his post. “You sent me to Israel to be your eyes, ears, and voice and to make sure our flag flies above our embassy. My job is to be the last one to leave. I will not abandon this post. Our flag will NOT come down!” Huckabee declared, adding, “You did not seek this moment. This moment sought YOU! It is my honor to serve you!”

Meanwhile, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump rejected the notion of negotiating a ceasefire. “I’m not asking for a ceasefire. We’re looking at better than a ceasefire,” he said. “I want a real end to the conflict and a complete give-up by Iran.”