Escalating Middle East tensions have prompted swift U.S. action. The deployment of the massive USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to Israel’s shoreline coincides with a travel advisory for Americans in the country, amid fears of conflict with Iran.
The State Department directed non-emergency embassy employees and their families to exit Israel promptly, citing elevated security threats. Ambassador Mike Huckabee’s email to staff painted a picture of urgency: airline seats are in short supply following the advisory, and evacuees should seize any opportunity to depart, even if it means routing through intermediate destinations en route to the U.S.
Huckabee stressed composure but insisted on immediate action for those opting to leave. This comes as regional airlines suspend operations, stranding many and amplifying the call to evacuate.
Israeli Channel 12 broke the news of the Gerald R. Ford’s arrival, the U.S. Navy’s flagship supercarrier capable of launching dozens of fighter jets. It followed a wave of U.S. military aircraft arrivals, including 20 refuelers on Thursday and four KC-46A Pegasus planes at Ben Gurion Airport.
Analysts view the carrier’s positioning as a strategic show of force, likely tied to contingencies for military action against Iran. The Israeli Broadcasting Authority had earlier confirmed the tanker landings, signaling a significant U.S. troop and asset surge.
These developments reflect a tense standoff, with the U.S. balancing diplomacy and deterrence. American citizens in Israel are urged to register with the embassy and prepare contingency plans as the crisis deepens.