Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, the U.S. State Department has begun evacuating non-essential embassy staff and their families from Israel. A government plane airlifted some personnel Wednesday, following an announcement by the U.S. Ambassador to Israel about evacuation plans for American citizens. The State Department confirmed the departures, citing the "ongoing situation." President Trump has warned of potential direct U.S. involvement in the conflict, heightening concerns of wider regional war.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.