Timeline
February 24, 2026 — February 27, 2026
World
Timeline: Escalating US-Iran Tensions and Mass Embassy Evacuations (February 24-27, 2026)
In late February 2026, US-Iran tensions reached a critical point as President Trump threatened military strikes against Iran amid stalled nuclear negotiations. The crisis escalated from diplomatic talks to the largest US military buildup in the Middle East in decades, culminating in urgent embassy evacuations from Israel and warnings from multiple countries for their citizens to flee the region.
9 events · 4 days · 30 source articles
Tue, Feb 24, 2026
Major
US Evacuates Lebanon Embassy Staff as Iran Tensions Soar
The United States began evacuating part of its embassy staff in Lebanon as Iran warned of escalation risks should Washington strike. A second US aircraft carrier was deployed to Crete, with both nations preparing for a new round of talks scheduled for Thursday in Geneva. This marked the beginning of significant diplomatic and military activity in the region.
Thu, Feb 26, 2026
Major
Third Round of US-Iran Talks in Geneva
Oman-mediated negotiations between Iran and the United States took place in Geneva, perceived as a last-ditch effort to avert war. While initial optimism emerged, Tehran warned that Washington must drop 'excessive demands' to reach a deal. These talks occurred against the backdrop of the largest US military deployment to the Middle East in decades.
Thu, Feb 26, 2026
Major
USS Gerald R. Ford Departs Crete for Israeli Coast
The world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, left Crete and headed toward the coast of Israel. This deployment represented a significant escalation in US military presence in the region, with two carrier strike groups now positioned near Iran and Israel.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Major
US Embassy in Israel Authorizes Non-Emergency Staff Departures
The US Embassy in Jerusalem officially announced it was authorizing the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their family members from Israel due to security risks. The embassy warned that individuals should consider leaving while commercial flights were still available, marking a dramatic escalation in the crisis.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Major
Ambassador Huckabee Urges Staff to Leave 'TODAY'
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee sent an urgent email to embassy employees before 10:30 AM local time, strongly encouraging anyone considering departure to leave immediately. The message emphasized 'Those wishing to take AD should do so TODAY,' advising staff to get on any available flight out of Israel and make their way to Washington. This unprecedented urgency reflected the imminent threat of conflict.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Major
China Warns Citizens to Exit Iran 'As Soon As Possible'
China's foreign ministry issued an urgent advisory telling Chinese citizens to leave Iran as soon as possible, citing a 'significant increase in external security risks.' The ministry warned citizens not to travel to Iran and offered assistance for evacuations via commercial flights or land routes through neighboring countries. This represented the first major third-party country to issue such warnings.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Moderate
USS Gerald R. Ford Expected to Arrive Off Israeli Coast
The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier was expected to arrive off Israel's northern coast, completing its deployment from Crete. Additional US military assets including F-22 fighter jets and refueling aircraft were reported moving into position at Ben Gurion Airport and throughout the southern region, demonstrating the scale of American military preparations.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Moderate
State Department Issues Updated Israel Travel Advisory
The State Department formally updated its travel advisory for Israel, authorizing departure of nonemergency personnel and family members. The advisory warned that 'the security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza,' reflecting growing concerns about regional instability and potential Iranian retaliation.
Fri, Feb 27, 2026
Moderate
Omani FM Reportedly Meeting with US Officials
Reports emerged that Oman's Foreign Minister was meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (or other senior officials) in continued efforts to avert war between the United States and Iran. Oman's mediation role remained critical as diplomatic channels stayed open despite the military buildup and evacuation orders.
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