State Dept. Allows Non-Essential Personnel to Leave Israel Amidst Tensions

The State Department has authorized the departure of non-essential U.S. government personnel from Israel, citing the unpredictable security situation in the region. Americans are advised to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest, and to avoid traveling to Gaza due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. Israel is expected to proceed with its ground invasion of Gaza, and the U.S. has begun charter flights to evacuate American citizens and their immediate families from Israel.