Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, the United States has temporarily closed its embassy in occupied Jerusalem and instructed all American government personnel and their families in Israel to remain in shelters until further notice.
According to an official statement issued by the US embassy, the closure will remain in effect from Tuesday through Friday due to the evolving security situation in the region.
US State Department has also issued a travel advisory, urging American citizens to avoid all travel to Iran, Iraq, and Israel.
In response to the crisis, the US government has activated a “Middle East Task Force” aimed at assisting American citizens in the region, according to a spokesperson from the State Department.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has signalled a possible American role in Israeli military operations targeting Iran. Vice President J.D. Vance, in a media briefing, said President Trump could soon decide on additional measures to stop Iran’s uranium enrichment program.
The comments came following a high-level national security meeting at the White House. While no official decisions were made public, US media, citing sources, reported that the administration is seriously considering joining Israel in potential airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.
Israeli media reports suggest that any US.involvement would not be merely symbolic but part of a major military operation, specifically targeting the uranium enrichment plant in Fordow. Some Israeli officials reportedly believe that if Iran refuses to agree to a nuclear deal, a joint US-Israel strike is highly likely.
President Trump also held a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the White House security meeting.
Though details of the call remain undisclosed, Israeli media reports indicate that Tel Aviv expects Washington to either support or directly engage in any military campaign against Iran.
Previously, President Trump had demanded Iran’s unconditional disarmament, stating clearly that he is not interested in negotiations and seeks a permanent end to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
A senior US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said President Trump is firm in his stance and will not hesitate to take whatever actions are necessary to achieve his objective.
The President reportedly said he is aware of the whereabouts of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but “for now,” no action will be taken against him personally.
