Israel Closes Embassies Worldwide Amid Iran Tensions

In response to heightened tensions and Israel's military strikes on Iranian nuclear and military targets, Israel has temporarily closed all its embassies worldwide, suspending consular services without specifying a reopening timeline. Israeli citizens abroad have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid displaying Jewish or Israeli symbols publicly, and cooperate with local security authorities, with many embassies providing online forms for citizens to report their status. Security measures have been intensified in several countries, including Germany and Sweden, where authorities are reinforcing protection around Jewish and Israeli institutions such as the Great Synagogue in Stockholm. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has highlighted increased security efforts following discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The closures reflect serious concerns over potential retaliation or violence linked to the ongoing conflict, with U.S. President Donald Trump attributing the escalation to Iran's stance in nuclear negotiations and warning of possible further operations. These coordinated diplomatic and security responses underline the global impact of the Israel-Iran conflict and the heightened risks faced by Israeli nationals abroad.