The advisory says the security environment in Israel, Jerusalem, and the Palestinian territories can change quickly, sometimes without warning. The U.S. Embassy also warned it may further restrict travel for U.S. government employees and their families to certain parts of Israel, Jerusalem’s Old City, and the West Bank.
The State Department noted that people may want to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are still available, as increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel or reduce flights into and out of the country.
In the advisory, the U.S. recommends reconsidering travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. It also states “do not travel” guidance for Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict, and for several border areas due to continued military activity and security risks.
The “do not travel” areas listed include Gaza, locations within 11.3 km (7 miles) of the Gaza perimeter, northern Israel within 4 km (2.5 miles) of the Lebanese and Syrian borders, and areas within 2.4 km (1.5 miles) of the Egyptian border, except for the Taba crossing.
The State Department warned that terrorist groups, lone actors, and other violent extremists may carry out attacks with little or no warning. Possible targets include tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets and shopping areas, and government facilities.
For U.S. government personnel, the advisory says embassy staff are currently restricted from personal travel near Gaza and near the Lebanese and Syrian borders, and that travel in those areas requires special authorization. The advisory also notes that additional travel restrictions may be imposed with little notice if threats increase.
For the West Bank, the advisory says U.S. government employees generally need special authorization to travel there, and personal travel is restricted except for limited routes and certain daytime travel to specific locations under defined conditions.
On Gaza, the advisory says the U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services there because U.S. personnel are prohibited from traveling into Gaza. It also notes that key crossings remain closed to the general public, and describes the security situation as extremely dangerous and volatile.
The advisory encourages U.S. citizens who choose to travel in the region to stay alert, avoid demonstrations and crowds, follow local security instructions, report suspicious activity, and know where the nearest shelter is. It also recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and easier contact in an emergency.
