U.S. says Israel embassy staff can leave amid threat of U.S. strike on Iran

The U.S. Embassy in Israel authorized departures for staff and urged those who wished to leave to do so promptly after Washington-approved discussions; the move followed failed U.S.-Iran nuclear talks and some airlines have begun suspending flights.

The U.S. Embassy in Israel told staff they could leave after Washington approved authorized departures. Ambassador Mike Huckabee sent an email urging employees who wanted to depart to act quickly and prioritize available flights. The message followed talks between the United States and Iran that ended without a deal. Some airlines and other countries have already announced departures or travel advisories. Key points: - U.S. officials authorized departures for embassy staff and advised those who wished to leave to do so promptly. - Ambassador Mike Huckabee told employees to focus on getting outbound flights and said departure authorization was available that day for those who wanted it. - U.S. and Iranian negotiators left nuclear talks without a formal agreement, and several airlines have begun suspending flights from the region. Summary: The authorizations reflect heightened contingency planning by U.S. diplomatic officials amid unresolved negotiations with Iran. Undetermined at this time.