The United States has authorized non-emergency government personnel and their families to leave Israel due to escalating safety concerns, as announced by the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem on Friday. This decision comes amid rising tensions and the potential threat of military conflict with Iran.

The embassy refrained from specifying the exact safety issues prompting this “authorized departure,” which gives those affected the choice to leave if they wish.

This move is less severe than the “ordered departure” implemented earlier this week for some staff at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut.

The U.S. has significantly bolstered its military presence in the Middle East as it continues negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program.

Negotiations concluded on Thursday without any visible progress.

In response, Iran has warned it may target American bases in the region if attacked, a scenario that could also involve Israel in the conflict.

The two foes fought a 12-day war in June.

Several countries have begun withdrawing dependents of diplomatic personnel and non-essential staff from some locations in the Middle East, or advising citizens to avoid travel to Iran, amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran.