US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has advised American embassy staff in Israel to leave the country “today,” citing heightened tensions and the possibility of an Iranian strike.

According to a source familiar with the message, Huckabee told staff that there was “no reason to panic,” and that the move was taken out of an abundance of caution. He warned that flights out of Israel could quickly fill up, so personnel should book tickets to any available destination with onward connections to Washington.

Earlier on Friday, the US Embassy announced that it had authorized the departure of non-essential personnel and family members due to safety concerns. A notice posted on the embassy’s website advised people to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are still available.

The advisory comes as the US strengthens its military presence in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is expected to arrive in northern Israel as part of larger preparations for escalating tensions with Iran.

In addition, stealth F-22 Raptor jets have reportedly been deployed to southern Israel or are on their way, with aerial refueling aircraft stationed at Ben Gurion International Airport.

The developments follow renewed high-level talks between Washington and Tehran aimed at reaching a new nuclear agreement. Discussions, mediated by Badr Al Busaidi, were held in Geneva on Thursday.

US representatives, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have reportedly pushed for the full dismantling of Iran’s key nuclear facilities — Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan — and permanent limits on enrichment activities. Iran is said to favour a temporary suspension lasting several years.

Despite ongoing diplomacy, US Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper has briefed President Donald Trump on potential military options involving Iran.

The State Department has not publicly commented further on the embassy advisory