- Safiu Kehinde
The United States government has left its citizens seeking to evacuate from Israel amid war against Iran to sort themselves out.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the US Embassy in Jerusalem.
The embassy, in the statement, declared that it is currently not in position to evacuate or directly assist Americans seeking to leave Israel as the war escalates.
It however issued a guide on how the citizens can evacuate using the operating shuttles provided by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism.
While announcing the commencement of the shuttle operation which will travel enroute the Taba Border Crossing to Egypt, the embassy noted that the US government does not guarantee the safety of whoever chooses to follow the shuttle.
“The Israeli Ministry of Tourism has begun operating shuttles to the Taba Border Crossing as of March 2. To be added to the passenger list for a shuttle, you must register via the Ministry’s evacuation form .
“The U.S. Embassy cannot make any recommendation (for or against) the Ministry of Tourism’s shuttle.
“If you choose to avail yourself of this option to depart, the U.S. government cannot guarantee your safety. The information is provided as a courtesy to those wishing to leave Israel.” The embassy wrote.
The US government explained that passengers who wish to cross to Jordan may take the shuttle to Eilat and continue independently (by taxi) to the Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing.
Buses will be stationed at meeting points across the country, including Herzliya: Train Station Parking Lot, Haifa: Yad HaShmona Train Station Parking Lot. Jerusalem: Teddy Stadium, East Parking Lot, and Tel Aviv: Savidor Center Train Station Parking.
The government advised those willing to take the risk to be aware of your surroundings and also learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter.
They were urged to download the Home Front Command Red Alert application or similar apps for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket and missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions.
The passengers are also advised to avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings as well as all areas where there is a heavy police presence amongst other instructions.