Israel has temporarily closed all its embassies worldwide and suspended consular services following a series of major strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites, embassy statements confirmed on Friday.
The move, described as a security precaution, also included a public advisory urging Israeli citizens abroad to remain alert and avoid displaying Jewish or Israeli symbols in public. The closures come in the wake of Israel’s announcement that it had launched targeted attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, missile production centres, and top military commanders, marking what could be the start of a sustained military campaign.
No duration was provided for the embassy shutdowns. A staff member at Israel’s Berlin embassy declined to give further information when reached by phone.
“In light of recent developments, Israeli missions around the world will be closed and consular services will not be provided,” read a statement posted across various embassy websites.
The international fallout has prompted countries like Germany to tighten security around Jewish and Israeli institutions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed increased protection measures following a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In Stockholm, police vehicles were stationed outside the Great Synagogue, reflecting rising concerns about potential backlash.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump defended the Israeli strikes, suggesting that Iran provoked the assault by resisting terms in nuclear negotiations. He warned that more brutal attacks could follow if Tehran does not agree to a deal.
This escalation marks a sharp turn in already-strained Middle East tensions and has prompted widespread diplomatic and security reverberations across the globe.
reuters/s.s