US restricts travel for employees in Israel amid Iran threat
What's the story
The United States (US) has limited travel for its diplomats in Israel due to fears of an Iranian strike.
The US Embassy stated that officials had been instructed not to go outside the greater Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Beersheba areas "out of an abundance of caution."
The directive was issued amid threats by Iran to attack Israel over the killing of senior commanders and officers of its elite Quds Force in suspected Israeli airstrikes.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The airstrike by suspected Israeli warplanes hit the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, killing at least seven Iranians, including two generals of the Quds Force.
While Israel has repeatedly targeted Iranian-linked assets in Syria in recent months, this was the first time a strike hit an Iranian diplomatic building.
Following the attack, Iran said it reserves the right "to take a decisive response."
Last week, Iran reportedly urged the US to "step aside" as it prepared to attack Israel.
Presidential address
President Biden reaffirms US commitment to Israel's security
Washington has a policy of advising American residents via such advisories whenever it changes security procedures for its people in a country.
On Wednesday, President Joe Biden said Iran was threatening to launch a "significant attack in Israel."
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed the escalating tensions and Iran's public threats toward Israel during a press briefing.
He stated that they are continually assessing the situation and closely monitoring the threat landscape in the Middle East, particularly in Israel.
Tensions rise
IDF says it's on high alert for Iranian attack
Tensions over a potential Iranian attack on Israel appeared to reach new heights Thursday, with the Israeli military saying it was fully prepared for an incoming strike.
Israel is "on alert and highly prepared for various scenarios, and we are constantly assessing the situation," Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Daniel Hagari told a press conference.
Tehran and Damascus have both blamed Israel for the bombing and promised retaliation, although Israel has yet to comment on the matter.