U.S. Embassy Unable to Help Americans Leave Israel Following Iran Strikes

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem announced Monday that it is unable to evacuate or directly assist American citizens trying to leave Israel, instead pointing residents toward a shuttle service operated by the Israeli government as a potential way out.

In a post on X, the Embassy said Israel's Ministry of Tourism began running shuttles to the Taba Border Crossing on March 2. Americans who want a seat must register through the Ministry's official evacuation form. The Embassy was careful not to recommend or discourage the option, noting that if Americans choose to use it, the U.S. government cannot guarantee their safety.

Those hoping to cross into Jordan can take the shuttle to Eilat and then arrange their own transportation to the Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing.

Democrats Response

The announcement drew immediate criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who blamed the situation on what they described as a poorly planned military operation against Iran and deep cuts to the State Department driven by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

"Donald Trump is abandoning American civilians after starting a reckless, illegal war with no plan," Representative Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ) posted on social media. "This is a direct result of DOGE gutting the State Department. Disgraceful."

Representative Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) added, "This administration rushed us into a war of choice with no clear plan, and now Americans are being left out to dry."

The strikes have also highlighted a notable shift among some Arizona Republicans.

Republican Stance

AzCentral reported that Representatives Paul Gosar (R-AZ) and Andy Biggs (R-AZ) were previously part of a small bipartisan group that challenged former President Joe Biden's authority to conduct military strikes in the Middle East without congressional approval.

Both appear to have taken a different stance under President Donald Trump.

Gosar voiced open support for the operation, describing it as a necessary break from what he called years of American hesitation.

"For years, American hesitation and half-measures only emboldened that aggression. That drift is over," he expressed.

Biggs, the morning after the strikes, said he was waiting for more information.

"I don't want to make a comment until I've received that briefing," he said.

For Americans still in Israel, the political debate in Washington offers little comfort; they are navigating their way home largely on their own, with no U.S. evacuation plan in sight.