U.S. Allows Non-Essential Staff to Leave Israel

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem announced on 27 February 2026 that non-emergency government personnel and their families may leave Israel due to security risks, amid rising concerns of military conflict with Iran. The embassy clarified the decision allows personnel to decide whether to depart and falls short of an ordered evacuation, contrasting with the partial withdrawal issued this week in Beirut.

The U.S. has deployed one of its largest Middle East military contingents while negotiating with Iran over its nuclear program. The most recent talks, concluding on Thursday, produced no breakthrough. Iran has threatened strikes on American bases if attacked, and a potential escalation could also involve Israel. The decision reflects growing regional volatility and the need to mitigate risk to U.S. personnel.

Several countries have already withdrawn dependents and non-essential staff from diplomatic posts in the region, and citizens are being advised to avoid travel to Iran. The move in Israel aligns with this pattern, signaling heightened threat monitoring by Washington. The embassy did not detail the specific safety risks prompting the authorized departure but emphasized staff and families should consider leaving.

Emergency personnel remain in place to maintain critical functions, ensuring embassy operations continue despite the departure of non-essential staff. The authorization may affect family members as well, and the embassy indicated travel restrictions could be imposed without prior notice depending on evolving security conditions.