The US Embassy in Jerusalem has issued an urgent security directive advising American citizens in Israel to utilize land routes into Egypt as commercial aviation options remain nearly non-existent.
US Ambassador Mike Huckabee confirmed that while Ben Gurion Airport’s reopening remains uncertain, the Taba border crossing has emerged as the primary corridor for those seeking to leave the country.
The Taba crossing
In coordination with the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, the embassy has endorsed the use of dedicated shuttle buses to transport citizens from major cities—including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa—to the Egyptian border.
The Taba crossing is currently operational 24 hours a day.
Upon entering Egypt, travelers are advised to either fly from regional Sinai airports or continue overland to Cairo, where international flight operations remain stable.
Shelter-in-place for personnel
In a stark sign of the deteriorating security landscape, the embassy clarified that it is currently unable to facilitate military evacuations or direct departure assistance.
All non-emergency US government personnel and their families have been ordered to shelter in place until further notice.
Citizens remaining in the region are strongly encouraged to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive real-time tactical updates.
Regional fallout
The ripples of the conflict have swept across the Gulf.
In Kuwait City, the US Embassy announced an indefinite suspension of all consular services following reports of regional strikes affecting the mission’s vicinity.
The closure displays the high state of alert at US diplomatic posts throughout the Middle East as the military situation evolves.
