The U.S. State Department has authorized the departure of non-essential diplomatic staff and their families from Israel, citing rising security risks and a deteriorating regional situation. While embassy operations continue, officials warned that travel restrictions could expand quickly. At the same time, advanced U.S. Air Force F-22 fighter jets have been deployed to Israel, signaling increased military readiness amid growing Middle East tensions and uncertainty surrounding U.S.–Iran negotiations.

Israel has formally objected to the composition of a newly announced U.S.-supervised Gaza peace board, triggering fresh diplomatic friction between Jerusalem and Washington at a critical moment in the conflict. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office says the executive panel overseeing the Gaza peace plan was revealed without prior consultation, raising concerns over Israel’s exclusion from a process directly affecting its national security. President Donald Trump has described the board as a “new approach to conflict resolution,” inviting global leaders to participate in shaping Gaza’s future. However, Israel’s concerns highlight growing friction over decision-making authority, regional sovereignty and the broader framework guiding post-conflict governance in Gaza. WATCH