US shuts controversial Jerusalem embassy amid Iran-Israel conflict

The United States has temporarily shuttered its controversial embassy in Jerusalem and its consular section in Tel Aviv, citing escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.

The closure, which will remain in effect until Friday, comes after the Israeli military’s Home Front Command issued new safety directives amid fears of further violence.

“All US government employees and their family members have been instructed to shelter in place at or near their homes until further notice,” the embassy said.

In a statement, US officials said there were no plans to help private citizens leave Israel at this time.

“We will alert the US citizen community if there is additional information to share regarding departure options,” the embassy added.

The situation for those attempting to leave the country remains bleak. Ben Gurion Airport is shut, with no commercial or charter flights in operation. Israel’s seaports are also closed.

However, land crossings to Jordan remain open and are expected to operate on Wednesday, the embassy noted.