This marks the first direct threat to a U.S. diplomatic facility in the current escalation.
The U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv was temporarily closed Monday after shockwaves from an overnight Iranian missile strike caused minor structural damage. No injuries were reported among American diplomatic staff, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee confirmed on X.
“Our @usembassyjlm US Embassy in Israel & Consulate will officially remain closed today as shelter in place still in effect,” Huckabee wrote. “Thanks for those checking on your team… Repeat—NO INJURIES thank God!”
The embassy closure follows a barrage of Iranian missiles targeting multiple Israeli cities, reportedly in retaliation for recent Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites. Footage circulating online showed broken windows near the embassy.
Israel’s Magen David Adom reported five fatalities and at least 92 injuries in Monday’s attacks.
A senior U.S. official revealed former President Donald Trump intervened to dissuade Israel from targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader. “I think it’s time for a deal,” Trump later said. “But sometimes they have to fight it out, but we’re going to see what happens.”