Tel Aviv / Global — Israel has shuttered its embassies around the world and suspended all consular services in response to rising tensions following its large-scale military strikes on Iran, embassy notices confirmed on Friday.
Statements posted on Israeli embassy websites advised Israeli citizens abroad to remain vigilant, avoid public displays of Jewish or Israeli symbols, and to report any hostile activity to local authorities. The foreign ministry has also requested citizens traveling or residing overseas to update their location details via an online form—similar to protocols used after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks.
“In light of recent developments, Israeli missions around the world will be closed and consular services will not be provided,” read the official notice.
No specific timeframe was given for the duration of the closures. A staff member at the Israeli embassy in Berlin declined to provide further details, and the Israeli foreign ministry has yet to issue a formal public statement.
Security Measures Heightened in Europe
In Germany, Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed heightened security at Jewish and Israeli institutions after speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday. Police presence was visibly reinforced around the Israeli embassy in Berlin and other sensitive sites.
In Sweden, security was similarly tightened outside Stockholm’s Great Synagogue, with law enforcement vehicles stationed nearby, according to witnesses.
A Response to Escalating Conflict
The diplomatic lockdown follows Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and missile factories, which Israel claims were part of an effort to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. The offensive reportedly resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian military commanders.
The air campaign has prompted heightened international concern over a potential regional conflagration, with airspace across parts of the Middle East shut down and commercial flights cancelled following the strikes.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, commenting on the developments, blamed Iran for the escalation, saying Tehran had brought the attack upon itself by refusing to curb its nuclear ambitions.
“The next already planned attacks will be even more brutal,” Trump warned, urging Iranian leaders to return to the negotiating table.
By Were Kelly
