The United States Embassy in Israel has delivered troubling news to American citizens residing in the country. In a statement issued on Monday evening local time, the embassy informed that, due to the ongoing war situation, American citizens currently living in Israel will need to ensure their own safety for the time being.“The U.S. Embassy in Israel is currently not in a position to assist American citizens in relocating to safe zones or in facilitating their departure to the United States,” the statement read. “Citizens are strongly advised to remain inside bomb shelters and not to leave until the danger has passed.”Citing Iran’s alleged move toward developing nuclear weapons, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) launched large-scale airstrikes in the early hours of Friday, June 13, targeting at least eight Iranian cities including the capital, Tehran. The attacks focused on Iran’s nuclear facilities and military infrastructure. According to AFP, at least 100 sites were damaged in the strikes, and among the dead were Iran’s Army Chief Mohammad Bagheri and several senior military and intelligence officials.The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have named the military operation “The Rising Lion.”In retaliation, Iran launched a counter-offensive titled “Operation True Promise III” on Friday night, targeting Israel.The conflict between the two nations continues to escalate. According to Iran’s Ministry of Health, at least 244 people have been killed in Iran over the past four days due to Israeli attacks.Meanwhile, since Friday, 24 people have been killed and 592 injured in Israel as a result of Iran’s counterattacks. At least 10 of the injured are in critical condition.CNN reported that since the conflict began on June 13, Israel has shut down all airports, including its main international hub, Ben Gurion International Airport. No commercial or even chartered flights are being allowed to take off or land.
