Middle East Information
On June 12, Israel launched a unilateral strike on Iran. In response, Iran conducted retaliatory airstrikes on June 13, with additional strikes reportedly planned. Israeli airspace is currently closed to all commercial and private charter flights. Land crossings to Jordan remain open, except on Saturdays. For the latest status of Ben Gurion Airport and land crossings, click here.
The Department of State is continuously planning for contingencies to assist with private U.S. citizens’ departure from Israel. Do not wait for U.S. government assistance to depart. U.S. citizens who are able to depart on their own should do so. We will alert U.S. citizens if there is additional information to share regarding departure options. U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents currently in Israel or the West Bank and seeking U.S. government assistance to depart, please complete this form in the following link so the Department of State can better assist you and provide you with timely updates: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake. After submitting a Crisis Intake Form, American citizens can expect to receive messages from CACMS@state.gov. They should monitor their enrolled email address, check their junk/spam folders or settings, and reply with the requested information as soon as possible.
Key Information for U.S. Citizens:
- U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive emergency alerts and departure information.
- Those enrolled in STEP have received missile alerts and guidance to shelter in place.
- Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application (available only in Israel) for real-time alerts on missile strikes and UAV intrusions. Free apps like Red Alert: Israel are also available.
- Know the location of the nearest bomb shelter. You can contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of shelters.
- U.S. citizens can find additional information regarding steps to take in case of mortar and rocket fire and hostile aircraft intrusion in the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:
Security Reminders:
- Be aware that the situation is volatile and can escalate rapidly. Mortar, rocket, and drone attacks often occur without warning.
- Treat all red alert sirens as real. Seek shelter immediately and follow the instructions of local authorities.
- U.S. citizens can find additional information regarding steps to take in case of mortar and rocket fire and hostile aircraft intrusion in the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:
- U.S. government personnel may be restricted from traveling to affected areas.
- AMCITs (American citizens) in Israel are at the highest risk; those in Jordan and nearby regions should remain vigilant due to potential spillover.
Actions to Take:
- Refer to the U.S. Embassy in Israel's website for the latest Security Alerts.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application or similar apps for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket and missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions.
- Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings.
- Avoid all areas where there is a heavy police presence.
- Monitor local media.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities.
- Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
- Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Advisories (including the Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza) and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Information for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. For additional information, refer to “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Need Help?:
If you have a family member that is needing assistance evacuating in the Middle East, please be sure to reach out to my District Office for more assistance at 346-762-6600.
Helpful Links:
- Security Alert for Israel: Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem (June 23, 2025) - U.S. Embassy in Israel
- Security Alert for Qatar: Alert: Shelter in Place (June 23, 2025) - U.S. Embassy in Qatar
- Security Alert for Jordan: Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Amman, Jordan- Entry requirements to Jordan (June 22, 2025) - U.S. Embassy in Jordan
- Security Alert for Iran: Subject: Iran Security Alert – Land Border Crossings (June 23, 2025) - U.S. Virtual Embassy Iran
- Security Alert for Kuwait: Security Alert for U.S. Citizens in Kuwait (June 23, 2025) - U.S. Embassy in Kuwait
- Security Alert for Lebanon: STEP Alert – U.S. Embassy Beirut (June 22, 2025) – Ordered Departure for Family Members and Non-Emergency U.S. Government Personnel - U.S. Embassy in Lebanon
- STEP Enrollment Page: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/step.html?sfnsn=mo
- What the State Department can do in a crisis: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/emergencies/what-state-dept-can-cant-do-crisis.html