IDF Spokesperson Effie Defrin sought to reassure the public on Friday as regional tensions mounted and speculation grew about a possible strike on Iran, stating that the military remains on heightened alert but that no changes have been made to civilian instructions.

In a message posted to social media shortly before the start of Shabbos, Defrin addressed growing public unease.

“I am aware of the sense of uncertainty and the tension prevailing in the public due to the regional developments. The IDF is closely monitoring the situation in Iran and is on high alert and ready to defend you. There is no change in the guidelines; if there is any change, I will be here, and we will warn accordingly. Shabbat Shalom to everyone,” he wrote.

His remarks followed a series of diplomatic and security developments earlier in the day.

Hours before Defrin’s statement, the U.S. Embassy in Israel announced that it was evacuating non-essential staff members and their families because of “security risks.”

At the same time, the U.S. State Department revised its travel advisory and encouraged American citizens to consider departing Israel.

The heightened tensions come after U.S. and Iranian officials met Thursday in Geneva for another round of negotiations, as the United States continues a significant military buildup in the region surrounding Iran.

Although no agreement was reached at the conclusion of the talks, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said progress had been made and confirmed that “technical talks” would resume next week in Vienna, Austria. U.S. officials told Axios that the discussions were positive.

{Matzav.com}