The United States has begun evacuating its citizens from Israel following President Donald Trump’s announcement that American forces launched airstrikes on three major Iranian nuclear facilities. The development comes amid growing fears of an Iranian counterattack.
In a statement, U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, confirmed the evacuation process and urged Americans still in the country to leave immediately.
He said assisted departure flights had already begun, although the situation remained challenging due to limited access to airspace.
“The Department of State has initiated assisted departure flights from Israel,” Huckabee announced. “With airspace largely closed, the challenges are significant. If you have the option, TAKE IT.”
To support the evacuation effort, Israeli airline El Al will begin offering 50 seats starting Monday on outbound flights from Tel Aviv.
These flights will head to eight destinations, including New York and Los Angeles, allowing Americans and other foreign nationals a route out of the region.
Tensions Escalate After U.S. Bombing of Iran’s Nuclear Sites
President Trump confirmed on Saturday, June 21, that U.S. forces had carried out airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. The attack was conducted using B-2 stealth bombers, with the goal of crippling Iran’s nuclear program.
“We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors.”
The U.S. strikes follow Israeli military action that began a week ago, aimed at disabling Iran’s ability to produce nuclear weapons. Israel has focused its airstrikes on uranium enrichment facilities and other military targets within Iranian territory.
According to international observers, the ongoing conflict has already resulted in heavy casualties. Over 657 people have reportedly been killed in Iran, including 263 civilians.
Israeli authorities report that at least 24 people have died within Israel, while emergency medical services in the country confirmed that 23 others were injured in northern Israel on Friday
The deteriorating security situation has triggered a wave of departures. An internal U.S. State Department communication revealed that hundreds of American citizens have already left Iran in the past week.
With the situation worsening across the region, officials warn of the possibility of further military escalation.
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