Israel has shut down all its embassies around the world following a major attack on Iran’s military and nuclear facilities.
The Israeli government also advised its citizens abroad to stay safe, avoid public displays of Israeli or Jewish symbols, and report their location to authorities.
This action came shortly after Israel launched what it described as a large-scale operation targeting Iran’s missile factories, nuclear sites, and top military officials. Reports say many senior Iranian commanders were killed in the strikes.
“In light of recent developments, Israeli missions around the world will be closed and consular services will not be provided,” a statement posted on Israeli embassy websites said.
The statement added that Israelis abroad should cooperate with local security forces if they face any threats or hostile behaviour.
There was no official timeline given for when the embassies would reopen. A call made to the Israeli embassy in Berlin confirmed the closure, but no further information was given. The Israeli Foreign Ministry also did not respond to media requests for comment.
As part of the safety measures, Israelis living or traveling outside the country were urged to fill out an online form to update the Foreign Ministry on their current location. A similar process was used during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, to help with the return of military reservists and rescue missions.
The move has raised global concerns, especially in countries with large Jewish communities. Germany has announced that it is boosting protection at Israeli and Jewish buildings.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday that he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and promised to strengthen security around Jewish places of worship and Israeli offices.
In Berlin, the area near the Israeli embassy was quiet but under tight police watch. Similarly, in Stockholm, Sweden, police were seen stationed near the Great Synagogue, with both a van and patrol car guarding the location.
Earlier, Israel confirmed that it had attacked several key sites in Iran to prevent the country from developing a nuclear weapon.
U.S. President Donald Trump, reacting to the situation, blamed Iran for the attack. He said Iran had refused to accept U.S. demands in nuclear talks. “Iran brought this on itself,” Trump said, warning that future strikes could be “even more brutal.”
The rising tension between Israel and Iran could lead to more instability in the Middle East, affecting oil supplies and security worldwide. Countries are now watching closely to see how Iran might respond.
For now, Israeli citizens overseas are being urged to remain cautious, while embassies stay shut until further notice.
