US Embassy to help Americans evacuate Israel
The U.S. Embassy said it'll offer transportation for Americans looking to leaving Israel beginning on Friday.
"It will take some period of time to schedule everyone seeking to depart," the embassy said. "Transportation will be by air to Athens or Frankfurt, or sea from Haifa to Cyprus. You will not be able to choose your destination – we will assign you to the next available flight or ship."
"You should be prepared to depart within 8-12 hours of receiving notice of your booking. Each traveler may bring one small carry on item no more than 22 pounds (10 kg) and one suitcase no more than 35 pounds (16 kg)," the embassy said.
Delta Air Lines said it's partnering with the government to help set up flights through Athens.
United Airlines said it's adding extra flights with capped fares between Athens and Newark, New Jersey, and will use a larger plane for its Athens to Washington flight. "We’re in close touch with the U.S. State Department as it seeks to add additional options for Americans traveling from the region," United said.
American Airlines also said it is working "closely" with the State Department on its needs.
The U.S. expects "these initial travel options to facilitate the safe departure of thousands of U.S. citizens per week," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.
A separate official said that the State Department remains in contact with "several thousand" American citizens in Israel, but it’s unclear how many will ultimately decide to leave. Some have already departed.
The State Department estimates that roughly 500,000 American citizens live in Israel.
-ABC News' Amanda Maile, Will Gretsky and Shannon Crawford