Israel has temporarily closed its embassies and consular missions around the world following its large-scale military strikes on Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, a move that has intensified geopolitical tensions across the Middle East. The closures were announced through embassy websites on Friday, with no indication of when services might resume.
“In light of recent developments, Israeli missions around the world will be closed and consular services will not be provided,” read a notice posted on several embassy portals. The Israeli government has also urged its citizens abroad to remain vigilant, avoid public displays of Israeli or Jewish identity, and cooperate with local security forces in case of hostile incidents.
The decision follows a sweeping Israeli military operation inside Iran, reportedly targeting key nuclear facilities and missile production sites. According to Israeli sources, the attacks eliminated several high-ranking Iranian military commanders and are part of a broader effort to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.
Although Israel’s foreign ministry has yet to issue an official statement or timeline for the embassy closures, officials have encouraged Israeli nationals overseas to register their current locations through an online form. This approach mirrors previous security protocols enacted after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.
In response to the escalating situation, Germany and other European nations have increased security around Jewish and Israeli institutions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed that additional protective measures have been implemented at sites like the Israeli embassy in Berlin and synagogues across major cities. In Stockholm, visible police presence was observed outside the Great Synagogue.
While Israel has not commented extensively on the operational scope of the attack, reports indicate that it could be the beginning of a prolonged campaign against Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the strike, asserting that Iran had “brought the attack on itself” by defying U.S. efforts to curb its nuclear activities. He warned that future attacks could be even “more brutal” unless Tehran agrees to new negotiations.
The global community remains on high alert as the situation develops, with concerns over broader regional instability and potential retaliatory measures by Iran or its allies.
