The United States has imposed travel restrictions on its embassy personnel in Israel due to concerns over a potential attack by Iran.
In response to the heightened tensions, the US embassy announced that its staff have been instructed to avoid traveling outside the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Beersheba areas “out of an abundance of caution”.
This move follows Iran’s threat of retaliation, with the country accusing Israel of orchestrating an airstrike on its consulate in Syria 11 days ago, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals.
UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron has reached out to his Iranian counterpart, urging restraint and advising against further escalation of the situation.
Although Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the consulate attack, it is widely believed to have been involved in the incident.
Iran backs Hamas, the armed Palestinian group fighting Israel in Gaza, as well as various proxy groups throughout the region, including some – such as Hezbollah in Lebanon – that frequently carry out strikes against the Israelis.
Those killed in the consulate attack included a senior commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force in Syria and Lebanon, as well as other military figures.
The attack came at a time of continuing diplomatic efforts to prevent the war in Gaza spreading across the region.
Speaking on Wednesday, US President Joe Biden warned Iran was threatening to launch a “significant attack” and vowed to offer “ironclad” support to Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government was ready to meet any security challenge, warning that Israel would harm any country that caused it harm.
