Tel Aviv: The US announced on Wednesday that there are no current plans to evacuate private citizens from Israel, even as tensions flare between Israel and Iran. The statement came shortly before the US Embassy in Jerusalem indicated it is exploring potential evacuation options, including flights and cruise ship departures, in the wake of escalating hostilities.

According to Anadolu Agency, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee issued an urgent notice on X, alerting American citizens wishing to leave Israel that the embassy is actively working on organizing evacuation flights and cruise ship departures. The announcement urged citizens to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for timely updates.

However, earlier in the day, the US Embassy in Jerusalem had stated on X that there was no announcement regarding assistance for private citizens' departure. The State Department emphasized that it continuously plans for contingencies to aid private US citizens leaving crisis situations.

Following the update from the State Department, it remains uncertain when or if evacuation options will be available, given that Ben Gurion Airport and all Israeli seaports remain closed.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated that he had yet to decide whether to authorize military intervention in support of Israel's ongoing operations against Iran, leaving open the possibility of US involvement. "I may do it. I may not do it," he told reporters.

Regional tensions have heightened since Israel launched airstrikes on multiple sites across Iran last Friday, targeting military and nuclear facilities. In response, Tehran has carried out retaliatory strikes. Israeli authorities report that at least 24 individuals have died, and hundreds have been injured due to Iranian missile attacks.

Iranian media reports indicate that in Iran, the Israeli assault has resulted in 585 fatalities and over 1,300 injuries.