The United States Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, has announced that the U.S. is arranging evacuation flights and cruises for American citizens wishing to leave Israel.
In a post on his personal social media account, Huckabee wrote, “Emergency notice! American citizens wishing to leave Israel – the U.S. Embassy in Israel @usembassyjlm is arranging evacuation flights and cruise departures.” The message was later retweeted on the official account.
On Tuesday, the U.S. State Department announced that the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem would remain closed at least until Friday.
Huckabee also advised that Americans must enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest updates. He did not disclose when the evacuation efforts would commence.
On the same day, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that she would not discuss any plans supporting the evacuation of American citizens from the region.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of American citizens worldwide,” Bruce said, without providing specific details.
Bruce announced that the State Department has established a round-the-clock task force to address the ongoing conflict, including providing support for American citizens.